alleyway

noun

al·​ley·​way ˈa-lē-ˌwā How to pronounce alleyway (audio)
Synonyms of alleywaynext
1
: a narrow passageway
2

Examples of alleyway in a Sentence

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.
The issue is particularly pronounced in Jerusalem’s Old City, a densely populated area with narrow alleyways of ancient stones, which houses holy sites for Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026 Even alleyways have these magic moments. Chris Yogerst, HollywoodReporter, 6 May 2026 How to Get Around The easiest way to get around Bari is on foot, especially in the old town with its narrow alleyways, bustling piazzas, and historic landmarks. Megan Murphy, Travel + Leisure, 28 Apr. 2026 Duck into Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane), a tiny alleyway packed with bars and food stalls. Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for alleyway

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of alleyway was in 1788

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Alleyway.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alleyway. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

alleyway

noun
al·​ley·​way ˈal-ē-ˌwā How to pronounce alleyway (audio)

More from Merriam-Webster on alleyway

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster