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

• 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

In saying that, Chelsea will be reluctant to block the pathways of Mamadou Sarr (on loan at Strasbourg) and Aaron Anselmino (on loan at Borussia Dortmund). —James McNicholas, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2025

Investing in outdoor lighting is a simple solution to illuminate pathways and porches for safer steps. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025

The best companies create clear, intuitive pathways to live support when customers need it. —Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025

Create pathways where experienced professionals work directly with newcomers on real projects, not just theoretical training. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 7 Sep. 2025

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