cowcatcher

[ kou-kach-er ]

noun

1. a triangular frame at the front of a locomotive, especially a steam locomotive, designed for clearing the track of obstructions.

cowcatcher

/ ˈkaʊˌkætʃə /

noun

1. a metal frame on the front of a locomotive to clear the track of animals or other obstructions

Word History and Origins

Origin of cowcatcher¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; cow ¹ + catcher

Example Sentences

And this train, which was just a bunch of cardboard with a cowcatcher attached to it, was pushed into view by a bunch of people.

From The Daily Beast

And I never had much trouble with the Spiggoties, what of letting them sneak free rides in the tender or on the cowcatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

But we will spoil their game I guess, and I don't think the railroad company will complain at the loss of a cowcatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

Don made his way up to the locomotive and found a bigger knot of people gathered in front of the cowcatcher.

From Project Gutenberg

The engine itself had most of the cowcatcher torn off and the headlight smashed.

From Project Gutenberg

He gave it in charge of the other man, and then he climbed over the engine, and he came down on the cowcatcher.

From Project Gutenberg