track
UK: træk | US: træk
n. a mark or series of marks left by a moving object (e.g., footprints, tire tracks)
n. a prepared course or circuit for racing
n. a metal rail guiding wheels (e.g., train tracks)
vt. to follow the traces or movement of something/someone
vt. to record progress or data over time
The word "track" originates from the Old French trac ("path, footprint"), likely derived from the Germanic trak- ("to draw, pull"), reflecting the idea of marks left by dragging or moving. The spelling evolved with the addition of "k" in Middle English to preserve the hard "k" sound. The core concept of "following a visible path" unifies its modern meanings, from physical traces to monitoring progress.
The hunter followed the animal's tracks in the snow.
The new race track will host its first event next month.
The train jumped off the tracks due to a mechanical failure.
Scientists track migratory patterns using satellite tags.
The app tracks your daily steps and calories burned.