Route Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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route

[ruːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

transportation

A way or course taken in getting from a starting point to a destination. It can refer to a specific way or path, such as a road or path for vehicles or pedestrians.

Synonyms

course, path, track, way.

Examples of usage

  • The fastest route to the airport is through the highway.
  • I prefer taking the scenic route when driving through the countryside.
Context #2 | Verb

navigation

To plan or direct the course of a journey, especially by land, using a map or GPS.

Synonyms

direct, guide, lead, navigate.

Examples of usage

  • We need to route the trip to avoid heavy traffic.
  • The GPS routed us through the shortcut to save time.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Geography

  • 'Route 66', established in 1926, is one of the most famous highways in the U.S., often celebrated in music and culture.
  • In geographic terms, a route can refer to both land paths and sea passages, such as trade routes that connect countries.

Technology

  • In computer networking, a route is a path that data takes to travel across the internet, similar to how cars navigate roads.
  • GPS technology uses algorithms to find the best route for travel, considering traffic, distance, and time.

Language

  • In British English, 'route' can be pronounced as 'root', while in American English, it's typically pronounced with a 'rout' rhyme.
  • The versatility of the word means it can be used in phrases like 'take a different route', highlighting adaptability in travel and life.

Culture

  • The concept of a route is central in storytelling, often symbolizing a character's journey or path in life, like the hero's journey.
  • Various cultures have celebrated routes in their narratives, like the Silk Road in Asia, crucial for trade and cultural exchange.

Origin of 'route'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'route', meaning 'a path' or 'way', which reflects its use in travel.
  • In English, 'route' was first recorded in the 14th century, showing how long we've been using it to talk about paths.

The word 'route' originated from Old French 'rute' or 'route', which came from Latin 'rupta' meaning 'a track for wheeled vehicles'. The concept of a route has been essential for transportation and navigation throughout history, evolving from simple footpaths to complex highway systems and air routes.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,131, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.