double-heading

English

Noun

double-heading (uncountable)

1. (rail transport) The use of two locomotives at the front, or head, of a train.
   • 1959 March, “Talking of Trains: The L.M.S. Beyer-Garratts”, in Trains Illustrated, page 122:

     Mr. S. T. Yaxley recalls that the Garratts were first placed in service on the Toton-Brent and Toton-Wellingborough coal trains and empties back, eliminating much of the double-heading which prior to their introduction was so prevalent in Midland freight train operation.

   • 1960 February, A. S. Gillitt, “The operation and maintenance of Belgian main line diesels”, in Trains Illustrated, page 88:

     There appeared to be no restrictions on single-manning of locomotives in Belgium, but multiple-unit control of two locomotives by one driver has not been adopted; when double-heading is required a driver is put in charge of each locomotive.

   • 2021 December 29, Stephen Roberts, “Stories and facts behind railway plaques: Evesham (1870)”, in RAIL, number 947, page 59:

     [...] Fowler was responsible for a conservative small engine policy at the LMS, previously adopted on the Midland, which led to much double-heading - although the Royal Scot 4-6-0 express passenger locomotive was also introduced on his watch in 1928.

Alternative forms

• double heading

Related terms

• double-header
• single-heading
• treble-heading

Verb

double-heading

1. present participle and gerund of double-head