Which term is used to describe a locomotive (or locomotives) coupled, with or without cars, that displays markers?

• A. Train of Superior Right
• B. Train
• C. Train of Superior Direction
• D. Superior Train

Answer: (B)

In railroad terminology, the moving unit that includes locomotives, with or without cars, and that displays markers is simply called a train. Markers identify the presence and identity of a moving unit to other crews and dispatchers, so once the locomotives are coupled and displaying those markers, they are treated as a train for signaling and operational purposes. An engine by itself is just the locomotive, but when it’s part of a moving unit that shows markers, it becomes a train. The other coined phrases aren’t standard terms used in practice, so they don’t fit how crews and dispatchers refer to the movement.