Railcard

Railcard

Noun · /ˈreɪlkɑːd/ · a discount card for train travel

Definition

A railcard is an official card purchased by a passenger that entitles the holder to discounted fares on train journeys. In the United Kingdom, railcards are issued by National Rail and cover categories such as 16–25 year-olds, seniors, families, and disabled persons. The card itself is proof of eligibility for the reduced fare and must be carried alongside the ticket.

Origin

A compound of rail (from Old French reille, an iron bar) and card (from Latin charta, a leaf of paper). The compound emerged in British English during the mid-20th century as nationalised railway systems introduced systematic discount schemes for regular travellers.