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

The Buckeye Institute – along with a number of other conservative groups that have filed supportive briefs – want the justices to also revisit a 2005 decision that affirmed a broad interpretation of Congress’s power to regulate interstate commerce. — Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026

According to The Sacramento Bee, California Highway Patrol said the crew member was driving a semi-truck that veered off the interstate highway and overturned. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026

Noun

The interstate runs past the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo and The Big Texan Steak Ranch — home of the 72-ounce steak challenge, free if diners finish it within an hour. — Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026

Because the shooting occurred on the interstate, the California Highway Patrol was investigating the encounter. — Daniel Hunt august 29, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 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