Live rail is a term used for a rail line that carries electric current for the operation of trains and other railway equipment. There are a few synonyms that can be used in place of live rail. These include overhead wires, electric wire, and third rail. Overhead wires are a common synonym used when referring to electrically-powered railways in urban areas. Electric wire is a general term that can also refer to the power lines that supply electricity to homes and businesses. The third rail refers to the electrified rail that runs parallel to the regular railway track and is used to power the train. These synonyms are useful for writers who want to vary their word choice and avoid repetition in their writing.