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

So that states can plan ahead, Congress will have to fund the future interstate expansion. — Joshua Cole, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026

In just two decades, the gas-and-more travel stop called Buc-ee’s has gone from Texas phenomenon to national roadside empire and interstate institution. — Patrik Jonsson, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Sep. 2026

Noun

According to a Kansas Highway Patrol report, a GMC truck and a Hyundai SUV were headed south on the interstate when the truck hit the SUV and went into oncoming traffic lanes. — Nathan Pilling, Kansas City Star, 17 Sep. 2026

During the 59-hour construction window, Caltrans is urging northbound drivers to avoid the interstate and use Highway 99. — Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 17 Sep. 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