wayside
UK: ˈweɪsaɪd | US: ˈweɪsaɪd
n. the side or edge of a road or path
adj. located or occurring by the side of a road or path
The word "wayside" is a straightforward compound of "way" (Old English weg, meaning "path" or "road") and "side" (Old English sīde, meaning "edge" or "border"). It emerged in Middle English to describe the area adjacent to a traveled path, retaining its literal sense over time. The logic is transparent: "way" + "side" = "the side of the way."
Wildflowers grew along the wayside, brightening the dusty trail.
The old inn stood at the wayside, welcoming weary travelers.
They stopped at a wayside rest area to stretch their legs.
The abandoned cart was left to rust by the wayside.
Legends tell of spirits haunting lonely wayside crosses.