under way

under way

adv

Definition of UNDER WAY

1

: in motion : not at anchor or aground

2

: into motion from a standstill

3

: in progress : afoot <preparations were under way> <the season got under way with a bang>

Examples of UNDER WAY

1. The train has had to stop briefly, but it should be under way again soon.
2. Preparations for their arrival are already under way.

Origin of UNDER WAY

probably from Dutch onderweg, from Middle Dutch onderwegen, literally, under or among the ways

First Known Use: 1720

Related to UNDER WAY

Synonyms: afoot, under weigh

Near Antonyms: deferred, delayed, postponed; suspended

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