one-way

adjective

ˈwən-ˈwā 

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

Expect to pay between COP 120,000 and 150,000 (approximately $35-45 USD) for a one-way trip, depending on your final destination and the size of the vehicle. — Nikkita Nair, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026

Craven’s article is similarly one-way traffic on behalf of Rowling but done with a level of contempt toward trans people that almost swaggers in its certainty. — Literary Hub, 5 Oct. 2026

Monthly passes will rise 20%, from $10 to $12, while one-way tickets — the prices of which vary by distance — will go up 14%. — Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2026

There’s also the possibility to book a one-way fare in either direction. — Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for one-way

• aaa
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• axillae
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway

Kids Definition

one-way

adjective

1

: moving or allowing movement in one direction only

2

: one-sided sense 1b