pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā 

ˈpäth-

1

: path, course

2

: a line of communication over interconnecting neurons extending from one organ or center to another

also : a network of interconnecting neurons along which a nerve impulse travels

3

: the sequence of usually enzyme-catalyzed reactions by which one substance is converted into another

metabolic pathways

Synonyms of pathway

• path
• footpath
• trail

Examples of pathway in a Sentence

We walked along a winding pathway.

we parked our car near a rambling pathway that led down to the pond

Recent Examples on the Web

Yet, the Broncos tied a franchise record for wins this season by understanding their limitations, uncovering pathways to victory and executing at a high level in the most important moments of games. —The Athletic Nfl Staff, New York Times, 5 Jan. 2026

There Are Safety Concerns New parents may suddenly be on edge about the sharp corners of a coffee table, while those aging in place may need wider pathways to accommodate mobility aids. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 5 Jan. 2026

Wheelchair-accessible ramps and pathways are located throughout the resort, and beach wheelchairs can be borrowed at the Coronado lifeguard station. —Patricia Doherty, Travel + Leisure, 5 Jan. 2026

With Kansas City, Buffalo's longtime playoff boogeyman, not even in the AFC's field, Josh Allen has a clear pathway to make his first Super Bowl and fix the only blemish on his career résumé. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 5 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pathway

• neural pathway

Rhymes for pathway

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway
• beret

Kids Definition

pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā 

ˈpȧth-

: path

Medical Definition

pathway

noun

path·​way ˈpath-ˌwā, ˈpȧth- 

1

: a line of communication over interconnecting neurons extending from one organ or center to another

also : a network of interconnecting neurons along which a nerve impulse travels

2

: the sequence of usually enzyme-catalyzed reactions by which one substance is converted into another

metabolic pathways