English Expression · Intermediate
rail spike
A type of large nail with an offset head used to fasten a rail or base plate to a wooden railroad tie/sleeper
Pronunciation: say rail spike
Meaning
A type of large nail with an offset head used to fasten a rail or base plate to a wooden railroad tie/sleeper.
Example
The company use on the outside of both rails, on all sharp curves, a cast iron brace nearly the same height as the rail, and secured to tie with three rail spikes.
The company use on the outside of both rails, on all sharp curves, a cast iron brace nearly the same height as the rail, and secured to tie with three rail spikes.
Practice tips
- Practice rail spike out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.