block signal

noun

a fixed railroad signal governing the movements of trains entering and using a given section of track.

Origin of block signal

First recorded in 1880–85

The scuttlebug automatically reversed and began slowing for the end of its run—tripped by a block signal set in the ribbon cable.
Where I Wasn't Going | Walt Richmond
Trains moving on caution card must expect to find main track occupied at all stations regardless of the position of block signal.
Railroad Accidents | R. C. Richards
But this time it falls harmless as one of Chauncey Depew's periodical four-track, block-signal presidential booms.
The Army Mule and Other War Sketches | Henry A. Castle
The sergeant's hand snapped up to salute like a block signal.
Three Soldiers | John Dos Passos
The block signal even with the train staff or the train tablet is far from perfect.
Letters from an Old Railway Official | Charles DeLano Hine

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