Sidewalk: meaning, definitions and examples

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sidewalk

[ˈsaɪdwɔːk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

walking surface

A sidewalk is a path along the side of a street or road, typically paved for pedestrians to walk on.

Synonyms

footpath, pavement, walkway.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sidewalk	Commonly used in American English to refer to the paved path alongside a road for pedestrians. She walked down the sidewalk to get to the store. Please stay on the sidewalk for your safety.
pavement	Used in British English to refer to the sidewalk. In American English, 'pavement' typically means the surface of a road. The children were playing on the pavement. Be careful not to step off the pavement into the busy street.
footpath	More frequently used in British English and can refer to a path specifically meant for walking, often found in rural or suburban areas. They followed the footpath through the countryside. There's a lovely footpath that runs along the river.
walkway	Used to refer to any path or passage designed for walking. It can be outdoors or indoors and doesn't necessarily have to be next to a road. The walkway through the park is beautifully maintained. They installed a new walkway connecting the buildings.

Examples of usage

I always walk on the sidewalk when I go for a stroll in the neighborhood.
The children rode their bikes on the sidewalk to stay safe from the traffic.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

American English term

In American English, a sidewalk is the same as a pavement or footpath in British English.

Synonyms

footpath, pavement, walkway.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sidewalk	Primarily used in American English, it refers to the paved path beside a road for walking. I walked down the sidewalk to get to the store. Please stay on the sidewalk for safety.
pavement	In British English, it means the paved path at the side of a road for pedestrians. In American English, 'pavement' usually refers to the hard surface of a road. Mind the pavement when crossing the street. (British English) The pavement is cracked and needs repair. (American English)
footpath	Commonly used in British English, it indicates a path designed for pedestrians, which can be paved or unpaved. The footpath through the park is scenic. They followed the footpath along the river.
walkway	This term is used to describe both indoor and outdoor paths designed for walking, including pedestrian bridges and paths in parks. The walkway to the entrance is beautifully decorated. They installed a new walkway over the busy road.

Examples of usage

In the USA, people walk on the sidewalk, while in the UK, they walk on the pavement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'sidewalk' originated in the early 19th century from 'side' and 'walk', literally meaning a walking path beside the street.
In British English, a sidewalk is referred to as a 'pavement', highlighting different cultural terminology for urban infrastructure.

Urban Planning

Sidewalks contribute to urban safety by providing a dedicated space for pedestrians, reducing the likelihood of accidents with vehicles.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessible sidewalks in the U.S., ensuring everyone can navigate public spaces comfortably.

Cultural Significance

In many cities, sidewalks serve as social spaces where people engage in conversations, eat meals from food vendors, or perform street art.
During major public events, sidewalks often become vibrant gathering spots for celebrations, parades, and protests, illustrating their multifunctional role.

History

The earliest sidewalks appeared in ancient Rome, where elevated walkways helped citizens navigate busy streets safely.
In the 18th century, cities began constructing sidewalks for the growing number of pedestrians, reflecting the shift towards urbanization.

Safety and Design

Modern sidewalks often include features such as curb ramps, tactile paving, and benches to enhance accessibility and comfort.
Creative sidewalk designs, like painted murals or embedded art, are becoming popular in urban environments to engage communities and beautify public spaces.

Translations

Translations of the word "sidewalk" in other languages:

🇵🇹 calçada

🇮🇳 फुटपाथ (Footpath)

🇩🇪 Bürgersteig

🇮🇩 trotoar

🇺🇦 тротуар

🇵🇱 chodnik

🇯🇵 歩道 (Hodō)

🇫🇷 trottoir

🇪🇸 acera

🇹🇷 kaldırım

🇰🇷 인도 (Indo)

🇸🇦 رصيف (Raseef)

🇨🇿 chodník

🇸🇰 chodník

🇨🇳 人行道 (Rénxíngdào)

🇸🇮 pločnik

🇮🇸 gangstétt

🇰🇿 жаяу жүргіншілер жолы

🇬🇪 ტროტუარი (Trotuari)

🇦🇿 səkilər

🇲🇽 banqueta