What does highway mean?
A highway is a major public road, particularly one intended for fast or long-distance travel. It may have several lanes, frequent junctions, and controlled entrances and exits, although the term is broad enough to include important roads that are not formally classified as motorways or freeways. The word commonly appears in expressions such as “on the highway,” “highway traffic,” and “take the highway.” In figurative use, “highway” can describe a route or channel through which information, commerce, or other resources move, as in “the information highway.” Although “highway” and “freeway” overlap, “freeway” more specifically suggests a road with uninterrupted flow and restricted access. The word is standard in both British and American English, with regional vocabulary often distinguishing among highways, motorways, freeways, and expressways.
A major public road, especially one carrying long-distance traffic and often having multiple lanes or controlled access.
"The highway connects the town with the regional airport."
In American English, “highway” is a general term; in British English, “motorway” is often preferred for a major controlled-access route.
A figurative route or channel for communication, information, or movement.
"The project aims to turn the old railway into a green highway through the city."
This sense is mainly figurative and is often used in compounds such as “information highway.”
The standard plural of the noun.
"Several highways were closed because of severe weather."
The word “highway” literally means a high or major way, and its history reaches back to roads that were elevated, prominent routes between important places.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of highway
The word “highway” is formed in the Middle English period from “high,” meaning elevated, prominent, or principal, and “way,” meaning a road or route. Its development reflects the older sense of a principal route, not necessarily a road that was physically elevated. The element “way” has Germanic roots and appears in many English words concerning routes, travel, or directions, while “highwayman” is a later derivative associated with road robbery.
How highway is actually used
The term is common in British and American English. In the United States, “highway” is broadly used, while “freeway” and “expressway” often emphasize particular design or access features; in British English, “motorway” is the usual term for a major controlled-access road.
Easily confused with highway
A highway is a major public road, while a freeway specifically denotes a controlled-access road with limited entrances and exits.