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What is "rail-splitter"

Douglas Harper's Etymology Dictionary
rail-splitter

1853, from rail (n.1) + agent noun from split (v.). Usually with reference to or suggestion of U.S. president Abraham Lincoln, as it figured in his political biography.

WordNet
rail-splitter

n. a laborer who splits logs to build split-rail fences [syn: splitter]

Usage examples of "rail-splitter".

He hates all this rail-splitter nonsense, even though he uses it to ingratiate himself with the folks.

Since on more than one occasion, at the age of twelve, Chase had ferried passengers across the Cuyahoga River, it was Trowbridge’s inspired notion to combat the image of the rail-splitter with that of a humble, hard-working child.

There was great curiosity to see the Western rail-splitter who had so lately met the famous "Little Giant" of the West in debate, and Mr.