Arterial road Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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arterial road

[ɑːˈtɪəriəl roʊd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

transport

A major road intended to carry large volumes of traffic and provide access to neighborhoods, businesses, and other areas. Arterial roads often have multiple lanes, traffic lights, and intersections.

Synonyms

main road, major road, through road.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
arterial road	An arterial road is a high-capacity urban road that serves as a main route through a city. It's designed to deliver traffic from collector roads to freeways and between urban areas. The new arterial road has significantly reduced travel time across the city. Heavy traffic congestion is common on this arterial road during peak hours.
main road	A main road is one of the primary roads in an area or city, often connecting smaller roads and handling a significant amount of local traffic. It is generally crucial for accessibility. We live just off the main road, making it easy to get to the city center. There was an accident on the main road, causing delays.
major road	A major road is an important road that typically accommodates high traffic volumes and connects different parts of a city or region. It might intersect or parallel highways. Highway maintenance is scheduled for next month on all major roads. Drivers are advised to use alternate routes due to construction on the major road.
through road	A through road is designed for uninterrupted flow of traffic from one end to another, often bypassing residential or side streets. It is used mainly for passing through an area without interruption. We need to find a through road to avoid all the traffic lights in the downtown area. The new through road will reduce congestion in residential neighborhoods.

Examples of usage

During rush hour, the arterial road is congested with cars trying to get to work.
The new development will include widening the arterial road to improve traffic flow.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

urban planning

A road that serves as the primary route for traffic flow through a city or town, connecting different areas and facilitating movement within the urban environment.

Synonyms

city artery, primary route, urban thoroughfare.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
arterial road	Used to refer to major roads or highways that deliver high-capacity traffic flow within or between urban areas. These roads are typically central to the transportation network. The new arterial road will greatly reduce commute times between the suburbs and downtown. Arterial roads usually have multiple lanes to accommodate heavy traffic.
urban thoroughfare	Utilized in a more formal or descriptive context to talk about significant streets in a city that handle a large volume of traffic. Less common in everyday conversation. The urban thoroughfare is lined with shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. Plans to renovate the main urban thoroughfare were discussed during the city council meeting.
city artery	Often used metaphorically to describe major streets or highways within a city that are crucial for transportation. Highlights the lifeline function of the road within the urban setting. Fifth Avenue is considered a major city artery, connecting the northern and southern parts of the town. During rush hour, city arteries are often clogged with bumper-to-bumper traffic.
primary route	Used to describe main roads, often for navigation and mapping purposes, focusing on their importance in the road network. Common in formal or technical descriptions. Route 66 was once the primary route for travelers crossing the United States. The primary route to the northern region is currently closed due to maintenance work.

Examples of usage

The city's arterial roads are designed to efficiently move traffic in and out of the downtown area.
Improving the signage on arterial roads can help reduce confusion for drivers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The concept of arterial roads originated in urban planning during the early 20th century to handle increasing vehicle traffic.
Many cities were designed with radial road systems, where arteries extend outward like spokes on a wheel, optimizing travel routes.

Urban Development

Arterial roads often serve as primary conduits for local traffic, reducing congestion on smaller streets.
The planning of arterial roads influences the layout of neighborhoods, affecting where shops, schools, and parks are located.

Safety and Regulations

Traffic laws on arterial roads may differ, often allowing higher speed limits due to the road’s design for faster traffic flow.
In many regions, pedestrian crossings, roundabouts, and bike lanes are integrated to enhance safety on these busy roads.

Environmental Impact

Arterial roads can contribute to air pollution due to heavy traffic, leading to community efforts for greener transport solutions.
Urban planners advocate for green corridors alongside arterial roads to help reduce the ecological footprint of these pathways.

Pop Culture

Arterial roads have featured prominently in films and video games, symbolizing the journey and the chaos of fast-paced city life.
Songs about the open road often reference these major thoroughfares as symbols of freedom and exploration.

Origin of 'arterial road'

The concept of arterial roads dates back to ancient civilizations that developed networks of roads to connect cities and facilitate trade. Over time, the importance of arterial roads has grown with the increase in urbanization and the need for efficient transportation systems. Today, arterial roads play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of traffic within cities and regions.