Pathway

Definition

Pathway primarily denotes a route or way of access to a particular place or in a particular direction, often used metaphorically to represent a course of action or series of experiences.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpæθweɪ/
• Respelling: PATH-way (with "PATH" as in "bath," and "way" as in "way")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpɑːθweɪ/
• Respelling: PAH-thway (with "PAH" as in "father," and "thway" as in "way")

In both dialects, "pathway" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "PATH" in American English and "PAH" in British English. The pronunciation remains consistent across both dialects, clearly articulating the "PATH" or "PAH" part followed by "way."

Etymology

The word "pathway" is derived from the combination of two Old English words: "pað" (path) + "weg" (way), which when combined, signifies a way or track formed by or as if by repeated footfalls.

Derivatives

• Pathwayed
• Pathless
• Pathmaker
• Pathfinding
• Pathfollower

Synonyms

• Route
• Trail
• Course

Antonyms

• Blockage
• Impediment
• Obstruction

Usage

"Pathway" can be used literally, such as referring to a physical route, or metaphorically, indicating a course of action, series of processes, or means of achieving something. In science, especially biology, pathways often refer to a series of actions or changes that result in a particular outcome.

Related Terms

• Roadway
• Track
• Journey
• Corridor
• Pathogenesis

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A track or way made by repeated treading.
• Example: "The park has several pathways leading to different sections."

• A route to or way of access to; way of reaching or achieving something.
• Example: "Online courses have become a significant pathway to higher education."

• A series of actions that can lead to a change or development.
• Example: "The signaling pathway in the cells was disrupted."

• A chain of reactions associated with a particular metabolic process.
• Example: "The researchers studied the neural pathways associated with memory."