gangway
UK: ˈɡæŋweɪ | US: ˈɡæŋweɪ
n. a passage or walkway, especially one on a ship or between rows of seats
n. (historical) a temporary bridge or platform used for loading/unloading ships
interj. (chiefly British) a command to clear a path
The word "gangway" combines Old Norse and Old English roots, both meaning "path" or "way." Originally nautical, it referred to a movable plank bridging a ship and shore. Over time, it generalized to any temporary passage. The interjection usage ("Clear the way!") emerged from its nautical context.
The crew lowered the gangway to allow passengers to disembark.
Please keep the gangway clear during the performance.
"Gangway!" shouted the porter as he pushed the heavy cart through.
The theater's narrow gangways made evacuation difficult.
Fishermen built a makeshift gangway to unload their catch.