Tollgate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tollgate
[ˈtəʊlɡeɪt ]
Definition
roadway checkpoint
A tollgate is a barrier set up on a roadway where drivers are required to pay a fee to pass through. Tollgates are often used to fund the maintenance of roads and bridges.
Synonyms
toll booth, toll plaza.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tollgate |
Used when referring to a gate where a toll is collected, typically found on roads or bridges. It often has a more historical or formal tone.
|
| toll booth |
Refers to a small structure, usually on roads, where drivers stop to pay a toll. This term is commonly used in everyday language.
|
| toll plaza |
Describes a larger area that has multiple toll booths and is typically found on major highways. This term is used in more technical or formal contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- We had to stop at the tollgate and pay the toll before continuing on our journey.
- The long line of cars at the tollgate caused a traffic jam.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of charging for road use dates back to ancient Rome, where travelers would pay 'toll' fees.
- In the Middle Ages, tolls helped fund the construction and maintenance of bridges and roads.
- The first actual tollgate in the modern sense was established in the 18th century to regulate traffic and generate revenue.
Economics
- Tollgates are often used to manage road congestion by charging fees during peak travel times.
- Revenue from tolls can be reinvested into road maintenance and infrastructure improvements.
- Dynamic pricing at tollgates can encourage drivers to travel at non-peak times, helping to reduce traffic build-up.
Technology
- Modern tollgates can utilize electronic toll collection systems, allowing for automatic payments via transponders.
- Some tollgates are equipped with automated number plate recognition technology to monitor vehicles.
- The use of app-based payments for tolls is growing, allowing drivers to pay without stopping.
Cultural Impact
- Many films and stories use tollgates as a symbol of barriers to freedom or costs of journeying.
- In some cultures, tollgates are seen as a necessary inconvenience, reminding travelers of service and upkeep.
- Tollgates can impact local economies, influencing trade routes and travel decisions.
Geography
- Tollgates are common on highways, especially in regions where public funding for roads is limited.
- Certain countries operate extensive toll road networks, while others rely primarily on taxes to fund roadways.
- The geographic placement of tollgates can affect traffic patterns and local community accessibility.
Origin of 'tollgate'
The concept of tollgates dates back to ancient times when travelers had to pay fees to pass through certain checkpoints. In the Middle Ages, tollgates were commonly used as a source of revenue for the maintenance of roads and bridges. The term 'tollgate' itself originated from the practice of collecting tolls at gates or barriers. Over time, tollgates have evolved to include electronic payment systems and have become a common feature on many modern roadways.