track 1 of 2

Definition of tracknext
1
2
as in path
a rough course or way formed by or as if by repeated footsteps there was still a faint track through the underbrush that indicated where the path used to be

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in route
the direction along which something or someone moves I followed the track of the thief's eyes as he watched the woman put the money into her purse and walk away

Synonyms & Similar Words

track

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word track distinct from other similar nouns?

The words trace and vestige are common synonyms of track. While all three words mean "a perceptible sign made by something that has passed," track implies a continuous line that can be followed.

the fossilized tracks of dinosaurs

When can trace be used instead of track?

In some situations, the words trace and track are roughly equivalent. However, trace may suggest any line, mark, or discernible effect.

the killer left no traces

Where would vestige be a reasonable alternative to track?

While in some cases nearly identical to track, vestige applies to a tangible reminder such as a fragment or remnant of what is past and gone.

boulders that are vestiges of the last ice age

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of track
Noun
Hardy takes his visitors along the Cape to Cape track, a stretch of coastline that goes from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, with views from the Contos Cliffs, Boranup Forest, and the Rivermouth, with each passing step. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 9 Feb. 2026 According to Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans, callers reported seeing a man [Johnson] allegedly throw away a firearm near train tracks while running. Jeramie Bizzle, CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026
Verb
There’s lightning, rain, sudden plot turns — all tracked by an ever-moving camera. David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 10 Feb. 2026 Interestingly, in the Jewish Federations of North America survey released recently, respondents’ emotional attachment to the United States and willingness to criticize its government track closely with the responses regarding Israel. Rabbi Jill Jacobs, Sun Sentinel, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for track
Recent Examples of Synonyms for track
Noun
  • In the grounds, cycling and walking trails, as well as a wooden treehouse with swings and hidey-holes, will keep the older ones entertained in fair weather.
    Sarah Leigh Bannerman, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Feb. 2026
  • With over 10,000 five-star reviews at Amazon, Darn Tough Socks feature high-quality materials and exceptional cushioning for all-day comfort on the trails.
    Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • That gives Takaichi a clear path to deliver on her agenda over the coming years – until the next election in 2027.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • His only real path to election is as the Sandy Koufax of the 21st century.
    Jayson Stark, New York Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • This week, Google went the bond route.
    Allison Morrow, CNN Money, 11 Feb. 2026
  • The emerging pattern includes architectures that route tasks to the simplest effective model, escalate only when necessary, and continuously balance accuracy with speed and cost.
    Abhas Ricky, Fortune, 10 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • And while a few are chasing specific bucket-list goals, many simply want to go somewhere enjoyable, do something engaging, and stay healthy.
    Kathy Boardman, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026
  • The new owner is Gary (Justin Kirk), who chases off anyone who comes around.
    Television Critic, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The wolf traversed through much of the Sierra Nevada and was part of a pack in Tulare County, which is located west of Fresno and just north of Bakersfield.
    Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 8 Feb. 2026
  • The disorder resulted in far fewer Palestinians traversing the border between Egypt and Gaza than was expected, nearly two years after Israel seized and shut the crossing.
    Oren Liebermann, CNN Money, 7 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • These traces of self-sufficiency only strengthened the couple’s determination to preserve the site’s history.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Expecting to find traces of the past in the old town of Regensburg, at first, archaeologists believed nothing that exciting lurked here.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 8 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • An aerial view from a chopper showed mostly footpaths with limited access by road for vehicles.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Take footpaths toward the beach or stroll cobblestone streets in town for dining and shopping.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 15 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Why Madagascar hissing cockroaches are actually romantic Naming a roach for Valentine’s Day is a great gag, but also these critters are capable of hissing their way into your heart.
    Emma Gometz, Scientific American, 13 Feb. 2026
  • But the way the investigation is being carried out is leaving people with some doubts.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 13 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Track.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/track. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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