Crosswalk - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

traffic safety

A crosswalk is a designated area on a roadway where pedestrians can cross. It is typically marked by painted lines and may have accompanying signals to indicate when it is safe to walk. Crosswalks are important for pedestrian safety and help manage the interaction between vehicles and those on foot. They can be found at intersections and other locations that require pedestrian access across roads.

Synonyms

crossing, pedestrian crossing, walkway.

Examples of usage

Always look both ways before crossing at the crosswalk.
The new crosswalk reduced accidents at the busy intersection.
Children are taught to use the crosswalk for their safety.

Interesting Facts

History

The first official pedestrian crossing was introduced in London in 1868 to improve safety for walkers.
In 1950s America, the design of crosswalks began to feature white stripes to make them more visible to drivers.
The term 'zebra crossing' originated in the UK due to the alternating black and white stripes resembling a zebra.

Traffic Safety

Crosswalks are designed to reduce accidents by clearly indicating where pedestrians should walk.
Studies have shown that marked crosswalks significantly decrease the chance of pedestrian injuries.
Some crosswalks are equipped with signals to help pedestrians cross safely during high traffic times.

Cultural Context

In Japan, crosswalks can feature artistic designs that blend cultural elements with traffic safety.
Many cities around the world have unique crosswalk designs that reflect local art or historical themes.
In some places, crosswalks are celebrated with events that encourage pedestrian awareness and safety.

Urban Planning

City planners consider crosswalk placement vital to ensure walkability and accessibility within urban areas.
Innovative cities incorporate raised crosswalks to slow down traffic, making it safer for pedestrians.
The concept of shared spaces blurs the lines between pedestrians and vehicles, changing how crosswalks function.

Law and Policy

Laws vary globally, but many places legally require vehicles to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Some governments enforce strict penalties for drivers who do not stop for pedestrians at marked crossings.
Awareness campaigns are often launched to educate the public about the importance of using crosswalks safely.

Origin of 'crosswalk'

The term 'crosswalk' originated in the mid-20th century, combining the word 'cross', which comes from the Old English 'cros', meaning 'a mark of intersection', and 'walk', derived from the Old English 'weccan', meaning 'to move on foot'. As cities began to grow and pedestrian traffic increased, the need for safer crossings at streets became apparent. The introduction of crosswalks symbolized the recognition of pedestrian rights and the importance of traffic safety. Before the use of standardized crosswalks, pedestrians often crossed streets without any designated areas, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities. The establishment of traffic laws in the 1920s and 1930s further solidified the concept of crosswalks, making them a critical component of city infrastructure aimed at protecting pedestrians.

Crosswalk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations