Cow'catch`er noun A strong inclined frame, usually of wrought-iron bars, in front of a locomotive engine, for catching or throwing off obstructions on a railway, as cattle; the pilot. [ U.S.] Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/webster/C/177
a triangular frame at the front of a locomotive, esp. a steam locomotive, designed for clearing the track of obstructions. Also called Found on https://www.infoplease.com/dictionary/cowcatcher