Fell system

noun

ˈfel-
: a system of tracking for mountain railroads that uses a central elevated double-headed rail laid sideways and gripped tightly on each side by horizontal wheels attached to the locomotive

Word History

Etymology

after Fell, 19th century engineer who used it in a mountain railway across Mont Cenis that was opened in 1868

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Cite this Entry

“Fell system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Fell%20system. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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