interstate

1 of 2

adjective

in·​ter·​state ˌin-tər-ˈstāt 

: of, connecting, or existing between two or more states especially of the U.S.

interstate commerce

interstate

2 of 2

noun

in·​ter·​state ˈin-tər-ˌstāt 

: any of a system of expressways connecting most major U.S. cities

called also interstate highway

Examples of interstate in a Sentence

Noun

You'll get there quicker if you take the interstate.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

However, prosecutors filed a superseding indictment with only two charges — destruction of property by means of fire and arson affecting property used in interstate commerce. — City News Service, Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026

The gunman ambushed Thompson, a Minnesota father of two, firing several times before fleeing and setting off an interstate manhunt. — Shayna Jacobs, NBC news, 31 Oct. 2026

Noun

In second was New Haven, thanks in part to the pair of interstates that meet there, according to Brett Rosen Law. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 22 Oct. 2026

Two North Texas interstates are completely shut down due to police activity on Thursday afternoon. — Briauna Brown, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1844, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1968, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for interstate

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate
• angulate

Kids Definition

interstate

1 of 2 adjective

in·​ter·​state ˌint-ər-ˈstāt 

: of, connecting, or existing between states especially of the U.S.

interstate highways

interstate

2 of 2 noun

in·​ter·​state ˈint-ər-ˌstāt 

: an interstate highway