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

As a reminder, DACA was created in 2012 by the Obama administration, providing temporary protection from deportation, but does not grant lawful immigration status, lawful permanent residency or a pathway to citizenship. — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Sep. 2026

Grab some pruning shears and tidy up any branches that jut out of place or block pathways and important sightlines. — Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2026

The two pathways growing together may have also allowed the human brain to become far more complex. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 24 Sep. 2026

If Miami intends to upset Kansas City on Sunday, controlling the game through Achane is the pathway. — Kansas City Star, 24 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