Synonyms for

Trailing

Verb / ˈtreɪlɪŋ / Another word for trailing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Following behind someone or something; dragging or hanging down behind.

Synonyms & similar words

dropbehind tag trail givechase tail dog track getbehind goafter hangback dropback shack tracking chaseafter train chase drag following chasing pursuing tracking tracing tailing shadowing dogging hounding stalking pacing tagging

Synonyms by register

Formal

following subsequent consequent attendant

Informal

tagging along coming behind following along

Literary

laggard hindmost

Antonyms

leading advancing preceding forerunning pioneering guiding

Common collocations

  • trailing edge
  • trailing vine
  • trailing clouds
  • trailing smoke
  • trailing behind
  • trailing off
  • trailing garment

Word family

noun trail
verb trail
adjective trailing

Usage note

The word 'trailing' often implies movement behind something else, either physically or metaphorically. It can suggest a slower pace or a secondary position.

Example sentences

  1. The leaves were trailing in the wind.
  2. The little boy was trailing behind his mother.
  3. The car was trailing a long line of dust behind it.
  4. The dog was trailing its tail in the mud.
  5. The vines were trailing along the ground.

Quotes

  • I am not a trailblazer, I'm a trail follower, but I'm very good at it.
  • The trail is the thing, not the end of the trail. Travel too fast, and you miss all you are traveling for.
  • The best things in life are the people we love, the places we've been, and the memories we've made along the way. They're the treasures we carry with us.

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