third rail

Definitions

1. 1

   The electrified rail that runs beside or between train tracks to power electric trains.

   • The system voltage is 630 volts d.c. and the supply to the trains is by top-contact third rail with running rail return.
2. 2

   Anything that is controversial or dangerous to come into contact with, or is best avoided.

   • Today's rapidly developing third rail (at least in some states) is supporting driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, as favored by New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer.
   • Despite ethnic resentment and suspicion, they [Ukraine's leaders] never contemplated breaking up the country. This was the third rail of Ukrainian politics, and very few were willing to touch it. Secession was taboo.
   • “But I felt that it dodged the subject. I don’t know whether the studio or Chris felt that that was a third rail that they didn’t want to touch, but I want to go straight at the third rail. I’m just stupid that way.”

The neighborhood