Highway
A public way for travel, from footpaths to motorways.
A highway, in its broadest sense, is any public or private road or other public way on land, including major roads and rights of way. The term predates the 12th century, with 'high' in the sense of 'main.' In North American and Australian English, major roads such as controlled-access highways are often state or provincial highways, while in British English, 'highway' is primarily a legal term covering any route with public right of access.
- Largest highway network
- China, followed by the United States
Lore & Background
Traditionally used by people on foot or horses, highways later accommodated carriages, bicycles, and motor cars. In the 1920s and 1930s, many nations invested heavily in highway systems to spur commerce and bolster national defence. Major highways often incorporate features like dual carriageways and grade-separated junctions to enhance capacity and safety.
Reader's Guide
Highways have evolved from simple paths to complex networks critical for commerce, defence, and daily travel. The term's legal definition varies: in England and Wales, it covers any way with public right of passage, while in the US it often denotes major roads. Highways like the Pan-American Highway span multiple countries, and some include ferry services. The term has spawned related terms such as highway system, highway code, highway patrol, and highwayman.
Did You Know?
- The use of the term 'highway' predates the 12th century.
- In British English, 'highway' is a legal term that can include footpaths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly counts as a highway in the broadest sense?
A highway is any public or private route on land that people can travel, stretching from simple footpaths all the way up to major motorways. It is not limited to the big multi-lane roads most people first picture when they hear the word.
How does the meaning of 'highway' differ between British and American English?
In British English, the term functions primarily as a legal classification covering any route the public has a right of access to. In North American and Australian usage, it more commonly points to major controlled-access roads, often designated as state or provincial highways.
Which country has the largest highway network in the world?
China holds the top spot for the most extensive highway system globally, with the United States following in second place.
How old is the word 'highway' and what did 'high' originally mean in it?
The term predates the 12th century, and 'high' carried the sense of 'main' or 'principal' rather than referring to elevation. It served to distinguish the primary route from smaller local paths.
Does 'highway' only apply to big multi-lane expressways?
No—the definition is far broader than that. It encompasses any public way on land, including footpaths, minor country roads, and rights of way, not just the controlled-access motorways people typically associate with the term.
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