road
UK: rəʊd | US: roʊd
n. a wide way leading from one place to another, especially one with a specially prepared surface that vehicles can use
n. a long, hard surface built for vehicles to travel along
n. (figurative) a way or course toward achieving something
The word "road" originates from Old English "rād," meaning "a riding, journey, or path." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*raidō," which referred to a ride or expedition. Over time, the meaning shifted from the act of riding to the physical path itself. The word shares roots with "ride" and "raid," reflecting its early association with movement and travel. Unlike many modern compound words, "road" is monomorphic—its structure cannot be further divided into smaller meaningful units in English.
The road to the village was narrow and winding.
They are building a new road to reduce traffic congestion.
Hard work is the road to success.
The accident blocked the main road for hours.
We took the scenic road along the coast.