freeway

noun

free·​way ˈfrē-ˌwā How to pronounce freeway (audio)
Synonyms of freewaynext
1
: an expressway with fully controlled access
2
: a highway without toll fees

Synonyms of freeway

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Examples of freeway in a Sentence

a new driver who's nervous about driving on the freeway for the first time
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Depending on one’s vantage, the concrete behemoth evokes a spaceship or a naval vessel, an airport terminal or a bridge, maybe even a freeway overpass (very LA). — George Baker, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 Billboards along Southern California freeways have broadcast the Angels’ desperate attempts to draw in fans via pathetic promotions. — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 Bikes are not allowed to on freeways or expressways, and cyclists cannot pass through tolls unless the signs nearby dictate otherwise. — Sacbee.com, 31 Aug. 2026 In the city today, the Salt River is mostly reduced to a wide, dusty trough that passes unceremoniously under freeway bridges. — Alex Hager, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for freeway

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of freeway was in 1926

Rhymes for freeway

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free water
freeway
free weights
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Cite this Entry

“Freeway.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/freeway. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

freeway

noun
free·​way ˈfrē-ˌwā How to pronounce freeway (audio)
: a highway that is free of tolls

More from Merriam-Webster on freeway

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about freeway

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