Mainline Meaning in English
word
Definition
'Mainline' usually means the main path or central route of something, such as a main railway or water pipe. In slang, it also means to inject a drug directly into a vein.
Usage & Nuances
As a noun, most common in technical or transport contexts ('mainline railway'). As a verb, slang and negative—refers only to injecting drugs intravenously, not other forms of drug use. Not formal. Do not confuse 'mainline' (central route) with 'mainstream' (widely accepted ideas or trends).
Example Sentences
The train follows the mainline through the city.
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The mainline supplies water to every house here.
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He used to mainline drugs when he was younger.
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All major trains run on the mainline during rush hour.
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It's dangerous to mainline any kind of drug.
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That small town isn't on the mainline, so trains rarely stop there.
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