When I hear that two trains meet does that mean they crashed into each other?

Question

when I hear that two train meet does that mean they crashed

head on to each other ?

Answer 1

Yes and no.

Answer 2

Only if it is a 'cornfield meet'.  

When running on single track where trains operate in opposite directions, one train is put into a siding (in the hole) to let the oncoming train pass by.  This is called a 'meet'.  

A 'cornfield meet' is railroad jargon for a head-on collision.

Many times a freight train will be put into a siding  to be passed by another train.  This simply a 'pass'.  So, trains either meet or pass.

A 'good meet' is when the train dispatcher has done a good job setting up the meet, so that neither train incurs a long delay when meeting each other.  

But most times, the guy in the hole usually has to wait awhile for the other train to arrive, especially if that other train has an 'expedited schedule', as with high priority inter-modal trains and passenger trains.  Most dispatchers keep the way clear far in advance, so that if another train experiences any trouble, the expedited train will not be delayed.

Sometimes, the wait can be several hours long.............

Answer 3

No, it means they're on separate tracks going opposite directions.

Answer 4

are u refering to when your math teacher sais "at what point will the trains meet"  yes she is refering to collide.   Other wise the question is boring.