snow-plough

A snow-plough clears the tracks ahead of the train.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device for clearing snow: A "snow-plough" is a mechanical implement, typically attached to the front of a vehicle such as a train, truck, or tractor, used to push snow aside from roads, railways, or other surfaces.
   • A skiing technique: In skiing, a "snow-plough" (also called a "wedge") is a basic braking or turning method where the skis are angled inward to form a V-shape, with tips close together and tails apart.

Usage Examples

• Noun (clearing device):

  • The train was equipped with a snow-plough to clear the tracks during the blizzard. (A mechanical blade used to remove snow from railway lines.)
  • The city deployed several snow-ploughs to keep the main roads open after the heavy snowfall. (Vehicles with a blade for pushing snow.)

• Noun (skiing technique):

  • The instructor taught the beginners how to use a snow-plough to control their speed on the slope. (A skiing position for slowing down or stopping.)

Advanced Usage

• "to drive a snow-plough": to operate a vehicle equipped with a snow-clearing blade.

  • He has been driving a snow-plough for the highway department for ten years. (Operating a snow-clearing vehicle.)

• "to perform a snow-plough": in skiing, to execute the wedge-shaped braking motion.

  • The skier performed a snow-plough to avoid colliding with a tree. (Used the ski technique to stop.)

Variants and Related Words

• Snow-plow (noun, US spelling): an alternative spelling of "snow-plough".

  • The American truck used a snow-plow to clear the driveway. (Same meaning as snow-plough.)

• Snowploughing (noun): the action of clearing snow with a snow-plough, or the skiing technique.

  • Snowploughing is essential for winter road maintenance. (The act of clearing snow.)

Synonyms

• Snow clearer: a general term for any device that removes snow.
• Wedge (skiing): the V-shaped ski position used for braking.

Related Idioms

• To go snow-plough: to use the skiing technique to slow down.

  • When the slope got steep, she had to go snow-plough to stay safe. (Use the wedge position.)

• Snow-plough turn: a skiing turn executed from the snow-plough position.

  • He learned a snow-plough turn to change direction on the beginner slope. (A basic turning method.)