highway

high-way · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A main road, especially one connecting major towns or cities.

  2. 2.

    (US) A major public road, often with multiple lanes and limited access.

  3. 3.

    (figuratively) A direct route or means to achieve something.

Forms

plural: highways

Phrases & expressions

  • highway robbery — charging excessively high prices; a hold-up on a road
  • the information highway — the internet
  • my way or the highway — accept my decision or leave
  • highway patrol — police who monitor highways

Related words

Etymology

From Old English hēahweg, from hēah ("high, main") + weg ("way, road"). Originally referred to a main or public road as opposed to a private path.