sidetrack

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Sidetracked p. pr. & vb. n. Sidetracking. ] 1. (Railroads) To transfer to a siding from a main line of track. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]

2. Hence, fig., to divert or reduce to a position or condition that is relatively secondary or subordinate in activity, importance, effectiveness, or the like; to switch off; to turn aside, as from a purpose. [ Colloq. ]

Such a project was, in fact, sidetracked in favor of the census of school children. Pop. Sci. Monthly. [ Webster 1913 Suppl. ]