Sidetrack v. t. (past & past part. sidetracked; pres. part. sidetracking)
1.
(Railroads) To transfer to a siding from a main line of track.
2.
Hence, fig., to divert or reduce to a position or condition that is relatively secondary or subordinate in activity, importance, effectiveness, or the like; to switch off; to turn aside, as from a purpose. (Colloq.) "Such a project was, in fact, sidetracked in favor of the census of school children."
... that we know..." he answered, with the familiar smile in his voice. "The important thing is to sidetrack the French agent, who could put fifty ruffians on our trail instead ... — Affair in Araby • Talbot Mundy
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