Byway: meaning, definitions and examples

Another term for a secondary or less commonly used route, synonym to itself, often in rural areas.

• She found peace walking along the quiet byway
• Many byways intersect with historic landmarks

Frequently used to describe a smaller road branching off from a main road. These roads often connect residential areas to main roads.

• Turn left onto the first side road after the gas station
• The side road provides an alternate route to the city

Typically used for a narrow track typically for walking or cycling, not for vehicles. It can be found in the woods, parks, or countryside.

• We followed the path through the forest
• There's a beautiful path along the river

Refers to a narrow road, often in a rural or suburban area. Lanes are usually smaller than streets and lined with trees or fields.

• The lane was just wide enough for one car
• They live down a quiet lane outside the city

Historical significance or non-literal sense for a lesser-known or minor aspect of a topic.

• He is an expert on the byways of medieval literature.
• Exploring the byways of ancient Rome can be fascinating.

Used to describe a temporary departure from the main topic in speech or writing, often seen as wandering off the subject.

• During his lecture, he went on a long digression about his travels.
• Her memoir is filled with amusing digressions.

Implies straying from a planned course or standard, often with a connotation of unexpectedness or necessity.

• The plane had to take a deviation due to bad weather.
• His recent actions are a serious deviation from the company policy.

Describes moving suddenly from one topic to an unrelated topic during conversation or writing.

• She went off on a tangent about her favorite movies.
• We were talking about gardening, but he went on a tangent about cars.