airway
UK: ˈeəweɪ | US: ˈɛrweɪ
n. a passage for air to flow through (e.g., in the respiratory system or aviation)
n. a designated route for aircraft in flight
n. a channel or duct for ventilation
The word "airway" combines "air," derived from Old French air and Latin aer (meaning "atmosphere"), with "way," from Old English weg (meaning "path" or "route"). The term originally referred to natural air passages but later expanded to aviation routes in the early 20th century with the rise of air travel. The logic is straightforward: an "airway" is literally a "path for air," whether in the body or the sky.
The doctor checked the patient's airway to ensure proper breathing.
The pilot followed the designated airway to avoid collisions.
A blocked airway can lead to serious health complications.
The new ventilation system improved the building's airways.
Air traffic controllers monitor airways to manage flight paths.