rabbit trail

The term "rabbit trail" originates from hunting, where rabbits create complex paths to evade capture, leading to its use in describing distractions or difficult paths.

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Definition

B2Conversation

(idiomatic, informal)A diversion from the main topic that leads to an unrelated or lengthy discussion.

Example

  • We were discussing the project, but then he went down a rabbit trail about his weekend plans.
  • Try to stay focused and avoid going down rabbit trails during the meeting.

C1Regional

(slang, Southern US, Appalachia, Midwestern US)A rural area that is difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with it.

Example

  • The old farm is located down a rabbit trail, making it hard for visitors to find.
  • Locals are used to these rabbit trails, but newcomers often get lost.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "rabbit trail":

rabbit holetrail huntrabbit warrenrabbit boardtrail behindsnail trailmonkey trapwombat trailsawdust trailrat rungutter rabbit