Trailing

/ˈtreɪ.lɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

An act of following someone or something closely.

The detective kept a covert trailing of the suspect.

verb

To allow something to follow behind, often used in a figurative sense.

She felt her thoughts trailing him as he walked away.

To drag or let something hang down behind.

Her dress was trailing on the ground, picking up the dirt.

To follow someone or something, often at a distance.

The dog was trailing behind its owner on the walk.

adjective

Following or extending behind; connected with or leading to a trailing end.

The trailing vines of the plant added a touch of wild beauty to the garden.

Referring to the part that is behind or following.

The trailing clouds of the sunset painted the sky in vibrant colors.

Etymology

From the verb 'trail', which comes from Old English 'trǣgl', meaning to draw or pull behind.

Common Phrases and Expressions

trailing spouse

A spouse who relocates to follow the partner's job.

trailing stop

A type of stop order used to protect gains by enabling a trade to remain open and continue to profit as long as the market price is moving in a favorable direction.

trailing edge

The rear edge of an object, such as a wing or blade, where airflow leaves the object.

Related Words

trail

To follow or move along a path.

trailer

A vehicle or container pulled by another vehicle.

Slang Meanings

Trailing someone in a competition or race.

He was trailing the leader but still had a chance.

Lagging in performance or progress.

She’s trailing in her studies but is working hard to catch up.