Expressway Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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expressway
[ɪkˈsprɛsˌweɪ ]
Definitions
highway
A divided highway designed for high-speed traffic, with at least partial control of access and generally with some grade separation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| expressway |
Used in American English to refer to a major road designed for fast traffic, typically with controlled access.
|
| highway |
A general term in both American and British English for major roads that connect cities and towns. It can be a broader term than freeway and expressway.
|
| freeway |
Used mainly in American English, referring to a high-speed road with controlled access, either free of tolls or with limited toll collection.
|
| motorway |
Primarily used in British English, referring to a major road designed for fast traffic with controlled access. Usually similar to the American 'freeway'.
|
Examples of usage
- Let's take the expressway to get there faster.
- The expressway was built to ease traffic congestion in the city.
urban area
A wide road in an urban area, typically with multiple lanes in each direction and few or no intersections.
Synonyms
arterial road, boulevard, thoroughfare.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| expressway |
Used to describe a major highway designed for fast traffic, often without any intersections or traffic lights. It is ideal for long-distance travel and high-speed traffic.
|
| thoroughfare |
General term for any busy road or main route that's used by many people for travel or transport. It can be a smaller avenue, street, or larger road.
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| arterial road |
Refers to a major road that carries traffic from minor roads to expressways or other major roads. Typically, it connects different parts of a city or urban area.
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| boulevard |
Often used to describe a wide street in a city, usually lined with trees and designed for slower, scenic travel. Boulevards may also have multiple lanes for traffic.
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Examples of usage
- The new expressway will connect the downtown area with the suburbs.
- He drove along the expressway to reach the airport.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first motorways were constructed in Germany in the 1920s, known as 'Autobahnen', setting a precedent for fast roads.
- In the United States, the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 funded the Interstate Highway System, leading to the creation of many expressways.
- The term 'expressway' became popular in North America during the mid-20th century, as urban areas sought efficient transportation solutions.
Engineering
- Expressways often have special design features, such as multiple lanes, limited access points, and controlled intersections.
- The construction of expressways requires careful planning to minimize disruption to surrounding communities and ecosystems.
- In some regions, expressways include elevated sections or tunnels to help traffic flow smoothly across urban landscapes.
Cultural Impact
- Expressways revolutionized travel and commerce, dramatically reducing travel time for goods and people across cities.
- Films and songs often depict expressways as symbols of freedom and adventure, illustrating road trips and escapes.
- The growth of expressways influenced suburban development as people moved farther from city centers, leading to the rise of car culture.
Safety
- Expressways typically have higher speed limits, which can increase the risk of serious accidents if not driven cautiously.
- Safety features on expressways include designated rest areas, emergency phones, and clear signage to guide drivers.
- Many expressways are equipped with traffic cameras and sensors to monitor vehicle flow and enhance road safety.
Environmental Considerations
- The construction and expansion of expressways can lead to habitat destruction and increased pollution in nearby areas.
- Some cities are exploring 'green' expressways that incorporate eco-friendly technologies and wildlife corridors.
- Traffic congestion on expressways contributes significantly to air quality issues, leading to initiatives aimed at promoting public transport.
Origin of 'expressway'
The term 'expressway' originated in the United States in the early 20th century, as a way to describe roads designed for high-speed traffic with limited access points. The concept evolved over time to include different types of roadways in various countries, each serving the purpose of facilitating faster transportation within and between urban areas.
See also: expressed, expressible, expressing, expression, expressions, expressive, expressively, expressiveness, unexpressed.