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

Four years ago, however, Paul Dolan struck an agreement with David Blitzer to become a minority owner with a pathway for Blitzer to eventually assume controlling interest. — Zack Meisel, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

The defections followed the PGA’s decision to offer a small number of players who had left for LIV a pathway to return to playing in PGA events. — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 8 Sep. 2026

In a review, the researchers compared six fuel cycle pathways, with wide complexities, but mapped them easily using the Tube map design, a first for the field. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 8 Sep. 2026

Revolution’s Mancini said (ON)PATH does have a pathway to help patients who are in this situation. — Angus Chen, STAT, 8 Sep. 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
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

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