derailer
Plan wrecker device
A derailer is something that causes a train to leave the tracks, or more often, anything that disrupts progress or throws a plan off course.
In workplace jargon, derailers are behaviors or traits that undermine someone's career: His temper proved to be a derailer.
The word also names a railroad safety device that intentionally derails cars to prevent collisions.
Deliberate disruption of operations
- obstructionSomething blocking the way
- interferenceUnwelcome involvement in affairs
- hindranceBarrier to progress
- impedimentThing that obstructs progress
interruption · breakdown · disturbance · blocker · spoiler · wrecker · troublemaker · agenda
Linked segments forming length
- gearsToothed rotating machine parts
- shiftingChanging position or form
- cassetteMagnetic audio cartridge
- sprocketToothed wheel for chains
rear · front · hanger · tensioner · indexing · cable · pulley · cage
Divert from purpose
- misdirectionIntentional focus manipulation
- tangentLine touching curve once
- digressionVeering off topic
- deviationDeparture from expected path
deflection · red herring · diversion · detour · rabbit hole · off-topic · focus · attention
sabotage
Deliberate disruption of operations
- obstructionSomething blocking the way
- interferenceUnwelcome involvement in affairs
- hindranceBarrier to progress
impediment · interruption · breakdown · disturbance · blocker · spoiler · wrecker · troublemaker · agenda · meeting
chain
Linked segments forming length
- gearsToothed rotating machine parts
- shiftingChanging position or form
- cassetteMagnetic audio cartridge
sprocket · rear · front · hanger · tensioner · indexing · cable · pulley · cage · clutch
sidetrack
Divert from purpose
- misdirectionIntentional focus manipulation
- tangentLine touching curve once
- digressionVeering off topic
deviation · deflection · red herring · diversion · detour · rabbit hole · off-topic · focus · attention · discussion
track
Path or monitored route
- switchCircuit-breaking toggle device
- obstructionSomething blocking the way
- sabotageDeliberate disruption of operations
wreck · collision · freight · locomotive · railcar · ties · spikes · wedge · blockage · accident
derailerguide rail
Directional support bar
guard rail · rail · track · guardrail · switch
derailerenabler
One who facilitates harmful behavior
facilitator · catalyst · supporter · stabilizer · promoter
derailerfacilitator
Neutral process guide
moderator · mediator · peacemaker · unifier · bridge-builder