Someone walking in front of a train? NYT

The crossword clue "Someone walking in front of a train?" with the answer "BRIDE" refers to a clever play on words involving the phrase "bridal train." In the context of a wedding, a "train" refers to the long fabric that extends from the back of a bride's dress.

Therefore, the clue humorously suggests that a bride, with her wedding dress train trailing behind her, is metaphorically "walking in front of a train." This pun connects the imagery of a bride at her wedding with the literal concept of a train, making "BRIDE" a fitting and playful answer to the clue.

The crossword clue "Someone walking in front of a train?" with the answer "CONDUCTOR" refers to the person responsible for overseeing the operation of a train. In this context, the clue plays on the literal role of a conductor, who often walks in front of the train to ensure safety and communicate with the engineer.

This includes checking the tracks and signaling that the train is ready to proceed. The answer highlights both the practical function of a conductor in the train's operation and the amusing imagery of someone physically walking in front of a moving train, making "CONDUCTOR" a fitting response to the clue.

The crossword clue "Someone walking in front of a train?" with the answer "ENGINEER" refers to the train engineer, the person responsible for operating the locomotive. In this context, the clue suggests the engineer's role in controlling the train and ensuring its safe operation.

While the engineer typically sits in the cab of the train, they are often in communication with other crew members and may walk along the platform or inspect the train before departure.

The crossword clue "Someone walking in front of a train?" with the answer "SIGNALER" refers to  a person responsible for managing train movements, particularly by signaling.

In railway operations, a signaler communicates with train crews to ensure safe passage, often standing near the tracks to indicate when a train can proceed or needs to stop. The clue cleverly implies that a signaler is literally "walking in front" of the train by being positioned along the tracks, guiding its movement.