noun
freeway
A major road with controlled entrances and exits and no crossing traffic.
We take the freeway to avoid traffic lights downtown.
Etymology
The compound combines free with way, a road or route. In road terminology, free refers to traffic proceeding without the ordinary interruptions of crossings and direct property access.
More examples
- She merges onto the freeway at the next entrance ramp.
- Take the next exit to leave the freeway.
- Several freeways connect the city with its surrounding suburbs.
Forms
freeway · freeways
Similar words
- highway
- A broader term that includes roads with intersections.
- interstate
- Specifically belongs to the numbered national Interstate Highway System.