Street Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
street
[striหt ]
Definitions
in the city
A public road in a city or town, typically with houses and buildings on one or both sides.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
Examples of usage
- There were children playing on the street.
- The street was lined with shops and cafes.
in address
A particular section or part of a city or town, defined by its buildings, inhabitants, activities, etc.
Synonyms
block, district, neighborhood.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| district |
A specific area of a city or town that has distinct characteristics, often with administrative, commercial, or residential purposes.
|
| neighborhood |
A localized community within a city or town, often characterized by social connections and a sense of identity among its residents.
|
Examples of usage
- She lives on Maple Street.
- Our office is located on Wall Street.
figurative
A place or situation that is crowded, busy, or full of activity.
Synonyms
busy place, crowded area, hustle and bustle.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| 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.
|
| busy place |
Refers to a location with a lot of activity and many people. It indicates a high level of engagement or movement.
|
| crowded area |
Describes a location tightly packed with people, often implying discomfort or difficulty moving around.
|
| 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.
|
Examples of usage
- The stock market is often described as a busy street.
- The political arena can be a tough street to navigate.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Streets are often named after historical figures or events, acting as living narratives of a communityโs 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 characterโs 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.
Origin of 'street'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'street' originated from the Old English word 'strวฃt', which meant a paved road. Streets have been a fundamental part of human civilization, dating back to ancient cities like Rome and Athens. Over time, streets have evolved to become not just thoroughfares but also social spaces where communities interact and businesses thrive.
See also: backstreet, streetcar.