# doorway

/ˈdɔɹˌweɪ/ (US) · /dˈɔːweɪ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/doorway
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. physical entrance

noun · CEFR A2

the opening in a wall where a door is, or the space you walk through to enter a room.

For teachers: the physical aperture in a wall designed for a door; the entranceway to a room or building.

- He stood in the doorway for a moment before deciding to come inside.
- The tall man had to duck slightly as he passed through the narrow doorway of the old cottage.

### 2. figurative opening

noun · CEFR B2

a way to start something new or reach a new opportunity.

For teachers: a metaphorical opening or means of access to a new state, condition, or opportunity.

- This internship could be a doorway to a great career in fashion.
- The new trade agreement served as a doorway to unprecedented economic cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.

## Examples

- She stood in the doorway and waved.
- He paused in the doorway to check if anyone was listening before entering the meeting room.
- The heavy oak doorway framed the view of the garden, marking the threshold between the quiet interior and the vibrant world outside.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.