Word
motorway
Phoneticsmo·tor·way
UK/mˈəʊtəwˌeɪ/
Definitions
01a high-speed road
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun British English
n. a large, wide road for fast cars and trucks that connects major cities.
n. a dual-carriageway road designed for high-speed traffic, featuring controlled access and grade-separated intersections.
“We took the motorway to get to London faster than using the smaller country roads.”
“Heavy congestion on the M25 motorway caused significant delays for commuters heading into the city during the morning rush hour.”
Usage
Often abbreviated as 'M' followed by a number in the UK, such as the M1 or M6.
Pitfall
We drove on the highway to Manchester.
We drove on the motorway to Manchester.
While 'highway' is understood, 'motorway' is the standard term used in the UK and Ireland for these specific high-speed roads.
Teaching tip
This is the standard term in British English; American English speakers almost exclusively use 'highway', 'freeway', or 'expressway'.
Synonyms
02a racetrack
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Sports American English · Technical
n. a special track or stadium used for car or motorcycle racing.
n. a venue or circuit specifically designed for motor racing competitions.
“Thousands of fans gathered at the motorway to watch the grand prix.”
“The local motorway underwent extensive renovations to meet the safety standards required for international motorcycle racing events.”
Usage
In this sense, it is more common in American English as part of a proper name for a venue.
Etymology
From motor + way.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/motorway