gate
UK: ɡeɪt | US: ɡeɪt
n. a movable barrier, usually on hinges, closing an opening in a fence, wall, or other enclosure
n. an entrance or exit, especially one of a controlled or restricted nature
n. (figurative) a means of access or entry to a place or condition
The word "gate" traces back to Old English geat (plural gatu), meaning "opening, passage, or door." It shares Proto-Germanic roots with Old Norse gat (hole, opening) and Old High German gazza (street). The core concept revolves around an entry point or passageway, evolving from physical barriers to metaphorical "gates" (e.g., "gateway to success"). Unlike compound words, "gate" is monomorphic—its spelling and meaning have remained cohesive without separable morphemes.
The castle’s iron gate creaked loudly as it opened.
Security guards monitored the gate to ensure only authorized personnel entered.
Hard work is often the gate to achievement.
She waited by the school gate for her children.
The farmer repaired the wooden gate to keep the sheep from wandering.