pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā 

ˈpäth-

1

: path, course

2

: a line of communication over interconnecting neurons extending from one organ or center to another

also : a network of interconnecting neurons along which a nerve impulse travels

3

: the sequence of usually enzyme-catalyzed reactions by which one substance is converted into another

metabolic pathways

Synonyms of pathway

• path
• footpath
• trail

Examples of pathway in a Sentence

We walked along a winding pathway.

we parked our car near a rambling pathway that led down to the pond

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the prevalence of these diseases, Geisler notes that two patients may share the same diagnosis yet arrive there through entirely different biological and lifestyle pathways, making generalized treatment insufficient. —Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026

More broadly, this work highlights a promising pathway for integrating solar energy directly into electrochemical energy storage, potentially bridging the gap between renewable energy harvesting and efficient energy utilization, according to researchers. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026

Marrying Gadirov, a green card holder, also opened a pathway to permanent residency for him. —Ryan Oehrli updated February 6, Charlotte Observer, 6 Feb. 2026

According to the country’s investment agency, Invest Qatar, the new golden visa offers two five-year residency pathways (both renewable for up to 10 years)—one for entrepreneurs and another for executives. —Brittany Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pathway

• neural pathway

Rhymes for pathway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway
• beret

Kids Definition

pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā 

ˈpȧth-

: path

Medical Definition

pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā, ˈpȧth- 

1

: a line of communication over interconnecting neurons extending from one organ or center to another

also : a network of interconnecting neurons along which a nerve impulse travels

2

: the sequence of usually enzyme-catalyzed reactions by which one substance is converted into another

metabolic pathways