Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Cloverleaf: meaning, definitions and examples

🌿
Add to dictionary

cloverleaf

 

[ˈkloʊvərˌliːf ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

traffic design

A cloverleaf is a type of interchange that allows for the free flow of traffic between two highways. It features a series of looping ramps that connect multiple roads, enabling vehicles to change directions without requiring stop signs or traffic lights.

Synonyms

interchange, overpass, traffic circle.

Examples of usage

  • The new cloverleaf interchange improved traffic flow significantly.
  • Drivers appreciate the smooth transitions offered by the cloverleaf design.
  • During rush hour, the cloverleaf can become congested, despite its efficient layout.
Context #2 | Noun

plant type

Cloverleaf can also refer to a specific type of plant leaf structure found in clover species, characterized by three leaflets. This leaf structure is often associated with good luck, especially the rare four-leaf variety.

Synonyms

foliage, leaf.

Examples of usage

  • She found a four-leaf cloverleaf in the garden.
  • Cloverleaf plants are commonly seen in meadows.
  • The lucky charm is often a four-leaf cloverleaf.

Interesting Facts

Engineering

  • Designed to minimize traffic stops, cloverleaf interchanges are popular in busy areas where highways meet.
  • The first cloverleaf interchange was built in 1929 in Los Angeles, California, aiming to improve traffic flow efficiently.

Cultural Impact

  • Cloverleaf interchanges have appeared in various films and TV shows, often symbolizing modern urban life and movement.
  • In some cities, these interchanges are landmarks due to their unique designs and can even influence local business developments.

Geography

  • Many cloverleafs are located at the junctions of two major highways, helping disperse heavy traffic loads.
  • The shape of a cloverleaf design can vary based on the surrounding landscape and available land, showing adaptability in road design.

Safety

  • Cloverleaf interchanges help reduce the chance of accidents by allowing vehicles to merge and exit without stopping.
  • Despite their benefits, they can still be complex for drivers unfamiliar with the layout, leading to confusion.

Environmental Considerations

  • The construction of cloverleaf interchanges has raised concerns about increased land use and ecosystem disruption.
  • Planners now often consider surrounding habitats to minimize the environmental impact while designing these roadways.

Translations

Translations of the word "cloverleaf" in other languages:

🇵🇹 flor-de-três-folhas

🇮🇳 क्लोवरलीफ

🇩🇪 Kleeblatt

🇮🇩 daun semanggi

🇺🇦 трево

🇵🇱 koniczyna

🇯🇵 クローバーリーフ

🇫🇷 feuille de trèfle

🇪🇸 hoja de trébol

🇹🇷 yonca yaprağı

🇰🇷 클로버리프

🇸🇦 ورقة البرسيم

🇨🇿 jetel

🇸🇰 ďatelina

🇨🇳 三叶草

🇸🇮 trava deteljica

🇮🇸 kloverblað

🇰🇿 бақшаш

🇬🇪 კლოუვერლიფი

🇦🇿 şüyüd yarpağı

🇲🇽 hoja de trébol

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,047, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.