# Amtrak

/ˈæmtɹæk/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amtrak
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

the national train system in the United States. You use this name when talking about traveling between American cities by rail.

For teachers: the brand name for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, which operates intercity passenger train service in the United States.

## Examples

- I am taking Amtrak from New York to Washington tomorrow.
- Traveling by Amtrak is often slower than flying, but it offers more legroom and scenic views of the countryside.
- The expansion of Amtrak routes remains a central topic in debates regarding American infrastructure and the reduction of carbon emissions through public transit.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I took the Amtrak to Boston." but "I took Amtrak to Boston." — As a proper brand name, it is usually used without the definite article 'the'.

## Usage notes

- When used as a proper noun, it is typically not preceded by an article.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.