Langimage
English

subway

|sub-way|

A2

🇺🇸

/ˈsʌbˌweɪ/

🇬🇧

/ˈsʌbweɪ/

underground transport

Etymology
Etymology Information

'subway' originates from English, specifically the word 'sub-' meaning 'under' and 'way' meaning 'path'.

Historical Evolution

'subway' changed from the English word 'subway' in the 19th century and has remained largely unchanged in modern English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'an underground passage,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an underground railway system.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an underground railway system, especially in a city.

The New York City subway is one of the largest in the world.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a pedestrian underpass.

We took the subway to cross the busy street safely.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39