Street: meaning, definitions and examples

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street

[striหt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in the city

A public road in a city or town, typically with houses and buildings on one or both sides.

Synonyms

avenue, boulevard, road.

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Word Description / Examples
street

A street is a public road in a city or town, typically with houses or buildings along it. It is used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • Main Street is full of shops and cafes.
  • I live on Elm Street.
road

A road is a general term for any thoroughfare, route, or way that connects different places. It is not specific to urban or rural settings and is used in everyday language.

  • We traveled down a long country road.
  • The road to the city was under construction.
avenue

An avenue is a wide street or main thoroughfare, often lined with trees or large buildings. It is typically found in urban areas and conveys a sense of importance or prominence.

  • She walked down Fifth Avenue with her friends.
  • Our office is located on Pennsylvania Avenue.
boulevard

A boulevard is a broad, multi-lane road often with a median strip and sometimes lined with trees. It is commonly found in cities and suggests grandeur or significance.

  • Sunset Boulevard is famous in Los Angeles.
  • They built a new park along the boulevard.

Examples of usage

  • There were children playing on the street.
  • The street was lined with shops and cafes.
Context #2 | Noun

in address

A particular section or part of a city or town, defined by its buildings, inhabitants, activities, etc.

Synonyms

block, district, neighborhood.

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Word Description / Examples
street

A public road in a city or town, typically with houses and buildings on one or both sides. Often used to describe a specific road.

  • They live on Maple Street
  • The restaurant is located at the end of the street
block

An area surrounded by streets in a town or city, often used to describe a group of buildings or a specific section within larger urban subdivisions.

  • He lives a block away from the park
  • Let's walk around the block
district

A specific area of a city or town that has distinct characteristics, often with administrative, commercial, or residential purposes.

  • The financial district is very busy during the day
  • They live in the school district
neighborhood

A localized community within a city or town, often characterized by social connections and a sense of identity among its residents.

  • She grew up in a friendly neighborhood
  • The neighborhood watch program has reduced crime

Examples of usage

  • She lives on Maple Street.
  • Our office is located on Wall Street.
Context #3 | Noun

figurative

A place or situation that is crowded, busy, or full of activity.

Synonyms

busy place, crowded area, hustle and bustle.

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Word Description / Examples
street

Used to describe a public road in a city or town, usually with buildings on either side. It's neutral and straightforward.

  • Walking down the street, I saw many shops and cafes
busy place

Refers to a location with a lot of activity and many people. It indicates a high level of engagement or movement.

  • Times Square is always a busy place with tourists and locals alike
crowded area

Describes a location tightly packed with people, often implying discomfort or difficulty moving around.

  • The concert venue became a crowded area as more fans arrived
hustle and bustle

Implies a noisy, energetic crowd or lively activity, often used to describe the atmosphere of a city or busy location in a positive light.

  • I love the hustle and bustle of the city during the holidays

Examples of usage

  • The stock market is often described as a busy street.
  • The political arena can be a tough street to navigate.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'street' comes from the Latin word 'strata,' meaning 'paved road.'
  • In Old English, it was known as 'strete,' which also referred to a Roman road.
  • The usage of 'street' has evolved through languages, reflecting the growth of urban environments.

Cultural Significance

  • Streets are often named after historical figures or events, acting as living narratives of a communityโ€™s history.
  • In many cultures, streets serve as social spaces where markets, festivals, and gatherings take place.
  • Street art has become a powerful form of expression and can transform ordinary locations into vibrant galleries.

Urban Development

  • City planners consider street layouts vital for traffic flow, safety, and accessibility in urban areas.
  • Smart cities utilize technology to improve street infrastructure, making them more efficient and safe for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • The design of a street, including its width and materials, can significantly impact the behavior of drivers and walkers.

Transportation

  • Streets are crucial for various modes of transportation, such as cars, bicycles, buses, and pedestrians.
  • The development of streetcars in the 19th century revolutionized public transport, making cities more accessible.
  • Specific streets, like Broadway in New York, are famous for their unique cultural and commercial offerings.

Literature

  • Many authors use streets as settings to symbolize a characterโ€™s journey or the social dynamics of a community.
  • In poetry, streets can evoke feelings of nostalgia, hope, or even despair, reflecting the human experience.
  • Famous literary works often feature streets as crucial backdrops, like Charles Dickens' portrayal of London streets in his novels.

Translations

Word Frequency Rank

At #893 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.