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

Here again, actors deploying crypto’s financial heft crashed through boundaries that would have earlier been difficult for artists to circumnavigate without having achieved legitimacy through more conventional pathways in existing hierarchies. — Simon Denny, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026

These roles typically don’t require a four-year degree, offer clear pathways for advancement and depend on empathy, communication and teamwork in ways that resist automation. — Philip Weinberg, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Gomez-Arias said the university is working to provide an education that will further boost incomes, including more pathways to internships. — Andrew Khouri, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

Facial massages may influence the nervous system through sensory pathways in the face, including the trigeminal nerve, which connects to brainstem regions involved in autonomic regulation. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 1 Oct. 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