runway
UK: ˈrʌnweɪ | US: ˈrʌnweɪ
n. a defined path on which aircraft land and take off
n. a long platform extending into the audience area in a theater or fashion show
n. a track or way made for a specific purpose (e.g., a model's runway)
The word "runway" combines "run," derived from Old English rinnan (to flow, move swiftly), and "way," from Old English weg (path or road). Originally used in the 19th century to describe paths for livestock or vehicles, it later specialized in aviation (early 20th century) to denote aircraft landing strips. The fashion sense emerged metaphorically, likening the stage to a path for models.
The airplane slowed down as it approached the runway.
The model strutted confidently down the runway in a designer gown.
Engineers inspected the runway for cracks after the storm.
The theater's runway extended into the crowd for immersive performances.
A deer unexpectedly crossed the runway, delaying the flight.