An autoroute is a French term that refers to a high-speed, controlled-access highway or expressway. It is a type of roadway that is designed to facilitate faster and safer travel for motorists. The term is commonly used in France and other French-speaking countries, but it has also been adopted in other parts of the world.
Definitions
An autoroute is a type of highway or expressway that is designed for high-speed travel. It is typically a controlled-access roadway, meaning that access to the road is restricted to designated entry and exit points. Autoroutes are typically divided into two or more lanes in each direction, with a median barrier separating opposing traffic.
Origin
The term “autoroute” originated in France in the 1930s, when the country began to develop a network of high-speed highways. The word is a combination of the French words “auto” (meaning “car”) and “route” (meaning “road”). The first autoroute in France, the A1, was opened in 1950.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “autoroute” is generally consistent across different dictionaries. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “a limited-access highway designed for high-speed traffic.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a French term for a motorway or expressway.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “a French high-speed motorway.”
Associations
The term “autoroute” is closely associated with France and other French-speaking countries, where it is commonly used to refer to high-speed highways. In other parts of the world, similar types of roads may be referred to as motorways, expressways, or freeways.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “autoroute” include motorway, expressway, freeway, and highway. These terms are all used to refer to high-speed, controlled-access roadways.
Antonyms
Antonyms of “autoroute” might include local road, side street, or country road. These terms are used to refer to smaller, less heavily trafficked roads that may not be designed for high-speed travel.
The same root words
The root words of “autoroute” are “auto” and “route.” These words are also found in other related terms, such as automobile and roadway.
Example Sentences
- We took the autoroute to get to the airport quickly.
- The autoroute was closed due to an accident.
- The French autoroutes are known for their high speed limits.
- The autoroute system in France is extensive and well-maintained.
- We encountered heavy traffic on the autoroute during rush hour.