secondman

English

Etymology

From second (“2nd”) +‎ -man.

Noun

secondman (plural secondmen)

1. (rail transport, UK) A driver's assistant on a diesel or electric locomotive.
   • 2018, Andy Gibbs, The Southern Region in the 1970s and 1980s, Amberley Publishing →ISBN, page 12, photo caption:

     The secondman looks back from 'Slim Jim' Class 33 No. 33211 as it trundles through Gravesend station with a permanent way train in 1977. The first wagon's sides are literally bulging at the seams with ballast spoil.

   • 2023 March 8, Howard Johnston, “Was Marples the real railway wrecker?”, in RAIL, page 50:

     And instead of carrying commuters, the only people on many evening trains between Hatfield and St Albans were the driver and secondman.

Usage notes

The driver's assistant on a steam locomotive is the fireman.

Alternative forms

• second man

Anagrams

• Mendoncas