thoroughfare

noun

thor·​ough·​fare ˈthər-ə-ˌfer How to pronounce thoroughfare (audio)
ˈthə-rə-
Synonyms of thoroughfarenext
1
: a way or place for passage: such as
a
: a street open at both ends
b
: a main road
2
b
: the conditions necessary for passing through

Examples of thoroughfare in a Sentence

one of the city's main thoroughfares
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Where To See Manhattanhenge The best views are from Manhattan’s broad east-west thoroughfares with unobstructed views toward New Jersey across the Hudson River. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 The viral Sopranos meme imagines Italian fans leaving behind the Amalfi Coast for six-lane thoroughfares with no sidewalks. Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 25 May 2026 The new design calls for the hotel to sit along Warm Springs Avenue, which Hillgren said has proven to be a busier thoroughfare than Parkcenter Boulevard two blocks north. Mark Dee, Idaho Statesman, 20 May 2026 The town's main thoroughfare, Anderson Avenue, is home to a buzzing variety of bars, restaurants, and shops. Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for thoroughfare

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of thoroughfare was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thoroughfare.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thoroughfare. Accessed 29 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

thoroughfare

noun
thor·​ough·​fare ˈthər-ə-ˌfa(ə)r How to pronounce thoroughfare (audio)
ˈthə-rə-
-ˌfe(ə)r
1
: a street or road open at both ends
2
: a main road

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