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Towpath: meaning, definitions and examples

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towpath

 

[ ˈtoʊpæθ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

canal navigation

A towpath is a path alongside a canal or river, primarily used for the purpose of towing boats. Historically, horses or mules would walk along these paths to pull barges or boats through the water. Towpaths are often used today for walking, cycling, and recreation, providing a scenic route along waterways. They can vary in width and surface material, depending on the region and the purpose. In some places, towpaths have been developed into greenways or trails that connect communities.

Synonyms

path, trail, walkway.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoys walking her dog along the towpath.
  • The bike race took place along the towpath beside the river.
  • Many towpaths are now part of hiking trails.
  • The towpath offers beautiful views of the canal.

Translations

Translations of the word "towpath" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caminho ao longo do canal

🇮🇳 नहर के किनारे का रास्ता

🇩🇪 Weg am Wasser

🇮🇩 jalan tepi kanal

🇺🇦 набережна каналу

🇵🇱 ścieżka wzdłuż kanału

🇯🇵 運河沿いの道

🇫🇷 chemin le long du canal

🇪🇸 camino a lo largo del canal

🇹🇷 kanal boyunca yol

🇰🇷 수로 옆 길

🇸🇦 طريق على طول القناة

🇨🇿 cesta podél kanálu

🇸🇰 cesta pozdĺž kanála

🇨🇳 沿河道

🇸🇮 pot ob kanalu

🇮🇸 vegur við hliðina á ánni

🇰🇿 арна бойымен жол

🇬🇪 გადასასვლელი არხის გასწვრივ

🇦🇿 kanal boyu yol

🇲🇽 camino a lo largo del canal

Etymology

The word 'towpath' is a compound noun formed from 'tow,' which comes from the Old English 'tōwian,' meaning to pull or drag, and 'path,' which is derived from the Old English 'pæþ,' meaning a way or track for walking. The use of towpaths originated in the early stages of canal and river transport during the 18th century, particularly in the UK, where they became essential for the movement of goods. The development of canals during the Industrial Revolution made towpaths vital for the efficiency of water transport, allowing animals to tow boats along these dedicated paths. As time progressed and technology evolved, towpaths transitioned into recreational areas, fostering outdoor activities in conjunction with historical significance.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,619 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.