Throughway Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🚗
throughway
[θruːweɪ ]
Definition
roadway route
A throughway is a major road or highway that facilitates fast and efficient travel, often allowing for longer-distance transit without interruptions such as traffic lights or stop signs. It is designed to handle larger volumes of traffic, making it crucial for transportation and commerce. Throughways may connect urban and rural areas, ensuring smooth travel between different regions. They are essential for the economy, allowing goods and services to be transported swiftly. Some throughways also feature designated lanes for different vehicle types, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Synonyms
expressway, highway, motorway, route.
Examples of usage
- The truck drivers preferred the throughway for its speed.
- We took the throughway to avoid local road congestions.
- Many people use the throughway during holiday travels.
- The new throughway reduced travel time significantly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Transportation
- Throughways often have limited access points, which reduces traffic lights and stops, allowing for smoother travel.
- These roads are crucial in connecting cities and regions, facilitating commerce and movement.
- They can vary in size, from major interstates to smaller bypass roads that help avoid congested areas.
Urban Development
- The construction of throughways can significantly alter city landscapes, often leading to urban sprawl.
- They are often part of larger transport networks, interlinking with secondary roads and local streets.
- Smart city planners consider environmental impacts, aiming to minimize disruption to communities.
Cultural Impact
- Throughways have shaped modern culture by influencing how people live, work, and interact.
- They have led to the rise of roadside businesses, such as diners and gas stations, catering to travelers.
- Films and songs often depict the freedom associated with driving on these open, speedy routes.
Safety and Regulations
- Laws and regulations often vary for throughways, typically enforcing higher speed limits compared to local roads.
- Safety measures include clear signage, barriers, and regular maintenance to prevent accidents.
- Traffic control technologies, like cameras and sensors, help manage flow and enhance safety.
Origin of 'throughway'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'through' meaning 'in one side and out the other' and 'way' signifying a path.
- It emerged in the 20th century, reflecting urban planning and growing vehicle use.
- Similar to 'expressway' and 'freeway', it suggests a faster route for transportation.
The term 'throughway' dates back to the early 20th century, specifically around the 1920s, referring to a road designed for uninterrupted travel. The word combines 'through', denoting the idea of passage or continuity, and 'way', which signifies a path or route. Often associated with the development of the automobile and the increasing need for highways that catered to faster travel, throughways became fundamental in urban planning and transportation systems. These roadways emerged from earlier paths and wagon trails, evolving into major arterial roads connecting cities and regions. Initially, many throughways were constructed to alleviate traffic congestion in urban areas and to support economic growth by providing quick access to goods and services across states. Today, the concept of a throughway is associated with modern infrastructure, reflecting advancements in road engineering and transportation.