secondman

English

Etymology

From second (“2nd”) +‎ -man

Noun

secondman (plural secondmen)

  1. (rail transport, Britain) 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.

Alternative forms
  • second man

Usage notes

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

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