third rail

third rail

noun

: a metal rail on a train track that carries electric current to the train's motor

: a difficult issue that politicians try to avoid talking about

Full Definition of THIRD RAIL

1

:  a metal rail through which electric current is led to the motors of an electric vehicle (as a subway car)

2

:  a controversial issue usually avoided by politicians

Examples of THIRD RAIL

1. Social Security is the third rail of American politics.

First Known Use of THIRD RAIL

1867

Rhymes with THIRD RAIL

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