How Do You Spell DOUBLETRACK?

Pronunciation: [dˈʌbə͡ltɹˌak] (IPA)

Doubletrack is a term used in railway vernacular to refer to two parallel tracks. The spelling of this word is straightforward, with the syllables "double" and "track" combining to form one word. In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation of doubletrack is represented as /ˈdʌbəl ˌtræk/. The stress falls on the first syllable, which is pronounced as "dub-uhl," with the "b" sound emphasized. The second syllable, "track," is pronounced with a short "a" sound, like "træck."

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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DOUBLETRACK Meaning and Definition

  1. Doubletrack refers to a type of railway or trail configuration consisting of two parallel tracks or paths, allowing for the movement of trains, vehicles, or pedestrians in opposite directions. This term is primarily used in the context of transportation infrastructure, specifically railways and trails.

    In the case of railways, doubletrack refers to a layout where two separate tracks are laid side by side, allowing multiple trains to travel simultaneously in opposite directions. This configuration serves to increase capacity, enhance safety, and minimize train delays by reducing the need for trains to wait for oncoming traffic on single track sections. Doubletrack is commonly used in high-traffic or high-speed railway corridors, facilitating efficient movement of goods and passengers.

    Similarly, in the context of trails, doubletrack describes a trail arrangement where two parallel paths run side by side, typically used for hiking, biking, or other recreational purposes. These trails often allow for simultaneous traversal by users traveling in opposite directions, providing opportunities for passing and accommodating larger groups of people.

    Overall, doubletrack refers to the layout or arrangement composed of two parallel tracks or paths, purposefully designed to enable simultaneous movement in opposing directions, be it by trains on railways or pedestrians on trails.

Etymology of DOUBLETRACK

The word "doubletrack" is a compound term formed by combining the words "double" and "track".

The word "double" originated from the Old French word "doble", which came from the Latin word "duplus", meaning "twofold" or "double". The Latin word "duplus" is a combination of the prefix "du-" (meaning "two") and the suffix "-plus" (meaning "fold" or "plurality").

The word "track" originated from the Middle English word "trak" or "trake", which was derived from the Old French word "trac" or "tracier". This Old French word was likely influenced by the Germanic language group (Old High German "trecha" or Old Saxon "trecko") and ultimately has Proto-Germanic roots.