boardwalk
UK: ˈbɔːd.wɔːk | US: ˈbɔːrd.wɑːk
n. a wooden path or promenade, typically built along a beach or waterfront.
n. (historical) a walkway made of boards, often in a recreational or commercial area.
The word "boardwalk" combines "board" (from Old English bord, meaning "plank" or "flat piece of wood") and "walk" (from Old English wealcan, meaning "to roll" or "to tread"). It emerged in the 19th century in the U.S., specifically describing elevated wooden pathways built along shorelines to protect pedestrians from sand or mud. Over time, it became associated with leisure and entertainment, particularly in coastal towns like Atlantic City.
The beachfront boardwalk was lined with shops and amusement rides.
We strolled along the boardwalk at sunset, enjoying the ocean breeze.
The historic boardwalk was damaged in the storm but later restored.
Many cities built boardwalks to attract tourists in the early 1900s.
She bought saltwater taffy from a vendor on the boardwalk.