trailed
v. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈtɹeɪɫd// UK //tɹˈeɪld// trailed
v. to follow behind someone or something, often because you are moving more slowly. It can also mean to be losing in a game or competition.
v. to follow behind a person, object, or animal, typically at a distance or at a slower pace. In a competitive context, it describes being behind an opponent in score or ranking.
The little dog trailed behind its owner during their walk.
The visiting team trailed by two goals for most of the match before scoring in the final minute.
The exhausted hikers trailed behind their guide as the sun began to set over the rugged mountain ridge.
Usage
The verb is often followed by the preposition 'behind' when describing physical movement, or 'by' when discussing a specific margin in a score.