turnpike
1 of 1noun/ˈtɝnpaɪk/
Forms:turnpikes
1
(from 16th to 19th centuries) gates set across a road to prevent passage until a toll had been paid
2
a major highway, typically with a gate where travelers pay a fee for use
A turnpike is a toll road or highway where drivers must pay a fee to use it. These roads are often major routes that connect cities or regions and are designed for long-distance travel. The tolls collected are typically used to maintain or improve the road. Turnpikes can be found in many countries and are often a more direct and faster way to travel compared to other roads. They are named "turnpikes" because historically, a wooden pole or barrier, called a "pike", was used to block traffic until the toll was paid.
- Drivers used the turnpike to bypass heavy traffic on the regular route.
- The old turnpike was upgraded to accommodate more vehicles.
- Travelers appreciated the smooth ride on the newly paved turnpike.
- Toll booths along the turnpike collected fees for maintenance and improvements.
- Historically, turnpikes played a significant role in facilitating commerce between cities.
Synonyms: