Synonyms of one-waynext
1
: that moves in or allows movement in only one direction
a one-way street
2
: one-sided, unilateral
a one-way conversation
3
: that functions in only one of two or more ways

Examples of one-way 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.
Using federal mileage estimates, officials say a one-way drive from Sacramento to Bakersfield can cost just over $200 when factoring in fuel and other expenses. Nina Burns, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026 The heart-stopping anguish of seeing two West Ham winners scored and then be ruled out only underlined the direction of this match’s one-way traffic. Beren Cross, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2026 Their one-way attack drones yesterday, down 95%. Fritz Farrow, ABC News, 3 Apr. 2026 Roughly half of Iran’s missile launchers remain intact and thousands of one-way attack drones are still in its arsenal despite weeks of daily US and Israeli strikes on military targets, according to recent US intelligence assessments, three sources familiar with the intel told CNN. Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for one-way

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-way was in 1824

Cite this Entry

“One-way.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-way. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

one-way

adjective
1
: moving or allowing movement in one direction only
2

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