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

Critics may challenge the law on free speech or interstate commerce grounds. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 26 Dec. 2025

Kupper’s legislation would enable the Arizona Department of Transportation to authorize de-restricted speed zones for non-commercial vehicles during the daytime on qualifying rural interstate highways. —Center Square, The Washington Examiner, 22 Dec. 2025

Noun

Nine of the 13 people killed were in cars on I-30, as that tornado crossed over the interstate. —Marissa Armas, CBS News, 27 Dec. 2025

The state announced travel restrictions for some commercial vehicles, such as semitrailers, on interstates starting Friday afternoon. —Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 26 Dec. 2025

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
• adsorbate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate

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