derail

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verb (used with object)

to cause (a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.

to cause to fail or become deflected from a purpose; reduce or delay the chances for success or development of: Being drafted into the army derailed his career for two years.

verb (used without object)

(of a train, streetcar, etc.) to run off the rails of a track.

to become derailed; go astray.

noun

a track device for derailing rolling stock in an emergency.

Origin:
1840–50; < French dérailler, equivalent to dé- dis-¹ + -railler, verbal derivative of rail rail¹ (< E)

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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2013.
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Collins

World English Dictionary

derail (dɪˈreɪl)

—vb
1.	to go or cause to go off the rails, as a train, tram, etc

—n
2.	chiefly (US) Also called: derailer a device designed to make rolling stock or locomotives leave the rails to avoid a collision or accident

de'railment

—n

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
2009 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009
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Etymonline

Word Origin & History

derail

1850, in both trans. and intrans. senses, from Fr. dérailler "to go off the rails," from de- + railler (see rail). In general use first in U.S.