sidewalk

UK: ˈsaɪdwɔːk | US: ˈsaɪdwɔːk

Definition

  1. n. a paved path for pedestrians alongside a road

Structure
side <edge>walk <path for walking>
Etymology

The word "sidewalk" is a straightforward compound of "side" (from Old English sīde, meaning "flank" or "edge") and "walk" (from Old English wealcan, "to roll" or "tread"). It emerged in American English in the 18th century to describe a designated path for pedestrians beside a road, reflecting urban planning needs. The logic is literal: a walk (path) on the side of a street.

Examples

  1. Children rode their scooters on the sidewalk.

  2. The city repaired the cracked sidewalk last week.

  3. She tripped over uneven pavement on the sidewalk.

  4. Street vendors lined the sidewalk with food stalls.

  5. Walking on the sidewalk is safer than the road.