Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pile-up

noun

/ˈpaɪl ʌp/

Definition

A pile-up refers to a situation where multiple objects, especially vehicles, collide and stack on top of each other, leading to a chaotic scene.

Examples

There was a significant pile-up on the highway, causing traffic to back up for miles.
The pile-up involved five cars and blocked the entire lane.
After the rain, the pile-up of fallen leaves created a slippery surface on the road.

Meaning

The term often describes accidents involving several vehicles, particularly on roads or highways, where the impact results in a jumbled mass of wreckage.