sidetracked

[ sahyd-trakt ]

adjective

1. distracted from the main subject, task, course, etc.:

   Sorry for not replying sooner—I’m an easily sidetracked guy with poor time management.

2. (of a train) moved from the main track to a siding, where it stops temporarily:

   Rail officials agreed to move a sidetracked train after local residents complained of the noise, fumes, and vibrations.

verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of sidetrack.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sidetracked¹

First recorded in 1880–85; sidetrack ( def ) + -ed ²( def ) for the adjective senses; sidetrack ( def ) + -ed ¹( def ) for the verb sense

Example Sentences

He got sidetracked on issues such as the size of crowds at his rallies and a bizarre — and debunked — claim that Haitian immigrants in Ohio are killing and eating household pets.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s worth reflecting that there is more to governing than legislating, and even powerful governments can get sidetracked.

From BBC

To be sure, Somers described other motivations to “keep things positive,” and close Timm’s exit deal quickly, so the agency wasn’t sidetracked by a lengthy negotiation and debate while challenges loom in 2024.

From Seattle Times

His strong outing got sidetracked in the seventh inning.

From Seattle Times

That case has been sidetracked by allegations that Willis hired a romantic partner to run the prosecution.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aground
• ashore
• grounded
• helpless
• wrecked