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

Immigration reform was being debated in Congress, fueling hope that immigrants like her might finally get a pathway to legal residency. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 31 Jan. 2026

Temporary status should be a pathway to permanence, not a permanent condition. —José Sosa-Palacios, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2026

Legal experts emphasize that clear visa pathways, realistic ticketing disclosures, and visible security planning constitute effective liability management. —Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2026

An essential part of the Noisy Creek hybrid model involves turning alternative weeklies into monthlies, a pathway paved by The Stranger and the Mercury. —Robert Channick, Chicago Tribune, 30 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