brakeman

noun

brake·​man ˈbrāk-mən 

1

: a freight or passenger train crew member who inspects the train and assists the conductor

2

: the member of a bobsled team who operates the brake

Examples of brakeman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tivoli’s most infamous ride is the century-old wooden rollercoaster, which still has a brakeman on board each train. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2026

But the selection of the brakeman for the 2026 Olympic team has hit hurdles. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 6 Feb. 2026

In four-man bobsled, roles include a pilot, two pushers and a brakeman. — Michelle Bruton, Forbes.com, 6 Feb. 2026

His brakeman for that event, Carsten Vissering, suffered abrasions and was unable to compete Sunday in the four-man. — Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 14 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

brakeman

noun

brake·​man ˈbrāk-mən 

: a member of a train crew who inspects the train and assists the conductor