Turnpike - English Definition & Meaning

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Definition

A turnpike is a highway, often a toll road, designed for high-speed travel. Think of it as a major road where you might have to pay a fee to drive on it. πŸ›£οΈ Turnpikes are usually well-maintained and have limited access points. It's designed to reduce traffic congestion. They can speed up travel between cities or regions. It's like a VIP lane for cars, offering a smoother, faster ride. πŸš—

Etymology

The word 'turnpike' originally referred to a spiked barrier that was turned to allow passage after a toll was paid. 'Turn' implies the action of rotating the barrier, and 'pike' refers to the sharp points. Over time, the term came to mean the road itself. The name reflects its historical origins as a controlled access road where tolls were collected.

Related Words

Examples

  • "They took the turnpike to avoid the traffic on the local roads."
  • "The toll on the turnpike was $5."
  • "The turnpike provided a faster route to the airport."
  • "She paid the toll at the turnpike entrance."

Anecdote / Story

Think of road trip movies like 'National Lampoon's Vacation.' They probably encounter a turnpike along the way, maybe even causing some hilarious mishaps at the toll booth. It's like a classic symbol of American road travel! πŸ—ΊοΈ

Encouragement

Turnpike might sound old-fashioned, but it's still relevant in many areas. Knowing the term shows your awareness of different types of roads. Next time you're planning a trip, remember the turnpike! πŸ‘ You got this!

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