Cowcatcher (Noun)
Meaning
An inclined metal frame at the front of a locomotive to clear the track.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- Old locomotives were often equipped with a cowcatcher to prevent damage from obstacles on the tracks.
- Early trains running through rural areas frequently had a cowcatcher installed to protect the engine from stray livestock.
- Locomotives traveling through open ranges would often be fitted with a sturdy cowcatcher to clear away any large animals that wandered onto the tracks.
- When driving at night, the locomotive's cowcatcher would be checked before departure to avoid any damage from undetected obstructions on the track.
- Many modern locomotives have done away with the cowcatcher in favor of more advanced safety systems and track monitoring systems.