switchman

[ swich-muhn ]

noun

, plural switch·men.

1. a person who has charge of a switch on a railroad.
2. a person who assists in moving cars in a railway yard or terminal.

switchman

/ ˈswɪtʃmən /

noun

1. a person who operates railway points Also called (in Britain and certain other countries)pointsman

Word History and Origins

Origin of switchman¹

First recorded in 1835–45; switch + -man

Example Sentences

Hult, who worked as a railroad company switchman for three decades after his military service, has plenty of company.

From Los Angeles Times

The conductors, engineers and switchmen running the trains are not part of the supply-chain problem.

From Seattle Times

Last year, Ms. Leonard made more than $40,000 — a decent income that along with her husband’s pay as a railway switchman helps support their household with four young children.

From New York Times

The switchman he was initially accused of killing actually survived, Boyles said.

From Seattle Times

In February, India’s railways system announced a national recruitment drive for the most menial positions in its hierarchy — helper, porter, cleaner, gateman, track maintainer, assistant switchman.

From Washington Post