turnstile

noun

turn·​stile ˈtərn-ˌstī(-ə)l 

: a post with arms pivoted on the top set in a passageway so that persons can pass through only on foot one by one

Examples of turnstile in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An inventive offense loaded with playmakers, paired with an undertalented turnstile defense. — Andy Behrens, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Here are the five highest turnstile numbers at Empower Field during the preseason over the past decade. — Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 1 Sep. 2026

No position proved more of a turnstile in camp than first-string left guard. — Cam Inman, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026

Parton kept the turnstiles swinging even after the death of her husband, Carl Dean, and her own health problems. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for turnstile

• argyle
• awhile
• beguile
• compile
• condyle
• defile
• erstwhile
• exile
• freestyle
• gentile
• hairstyle
• lifestyle

Kids Definition

turnstile

noun

turn·​stile -ˌstīl 

: a post having arms which turn around that is set in an entrance or exit so that persons can pass through only on foot one by one