entrain: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2 (Low)Technical/Scientific; Formal (transport)
Quick answer
What does “entrain” mean?
To board a train.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To board a train.
To cause or synchronize a rhythm, pattern, or process; to bring or carry along in a flow.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both uses understood. The literal 'board a train' meaning might be slightly more recognised in UK due to higher rail usage, but is still formal/dated.
Connotations
Literal use can sound formal or old-fashioned. Figurative use is neutral-technical.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both regions, predominantly in scientific literature.
Grammar
How to Use “entrain” in a Sentence
[entrain] + [object] (e.g., The vortex entrains dust.)[subject] + [entrain] + [to/with] + [stimulus] (e.g., Neurons entrain to the external cue.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “entrain” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We shall entrain at Paddington Station.
- The oscillator entrains to the external pulse.
American English
- The soldiers were ordered to entrain at dawn.
- Your circadian rhythm entrains with sunlight.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
American English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The entrained air reduces concrete weight.
- An entrained sleep pattern is healthier.
American English
- Entrained gas bubbles improve insulation.
- Entrained biological rhythms are more stable.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in formal travel contexts: 'The delegation will entrain for Brussels at noon.'
Academic
Common in biology/neuroscience: 'The suprachiasmatic nucleus entrains the body to the light-dark cycle.'
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would likely use 'get on the train' or 'synchronize'.
Technical
Fluid dynamics: 'The jet entrains surrounding fluid, increasing its mass flow.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “entrain”
- Confusing with 'entertain'.
- Using 'entrain' in casual speech for 'get on a train'.
- Misspelling as 'entraine'.
- Incorrect stress: /ˈɛntreɪn/ instead of /ɪnˈtreɪn/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency word used primarily in scientific, technical, or formal transport contexts.
'Entrain' means to board or get on a train (or figuratively, to synchronize). 'Detrain' means to get off or disembark from a train.
Yes, its most common modern use is in science and engineering, meaning to synchronize a rhythm or to carry along in a current (e.g., air, water).
No. The literal transport meaning is specific to trains. For other vehicles, use 'board', 'embark on', or 'get on'.
To board a train.
Entrain is usually technical/scientific; formal (transport) in register.
Entrain: in British English it is pronounced /ɪnˈtreɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɛnˈtreɪn/|/ɪnˈtreɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None common for this word.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: ENTER a TRAIN. Or, ENlist in a TRAIN of thought (rhythm).
Conceptual Metaphor
RHYTHM IS A CONVEYOR / TIME IS A MOVING TRAIN.
Practice
Quiz
In a neuroscience context, 'entrain' most closely means: