el

1 of 3

noun (1)

ˈel 

: the letter l

el

2 of 3

noun (2)

often capitalized

: an urban railway that operates chiefly on an elevated structure

also : a train belonging to such a railway

The big stores. State Street. The el took you downtown in no time.

—Edna Ferber

el

3 of 3

abbreviation

elevation

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

circa 1906, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing el

• el cheapo
• ras el hanout

Kids Definition

el

noun

ˈel

often capitalized

: a railroad operating chiefly on elevated tracks