Interstate
IN-ter-stayt
/ˌɪn.tɚˈsteɪt/
A major express highway connecting two or more states, designed for high-speed traffic.
Refers specifically to expressways connecting multiple states, usually controlled-access with multiple lanes.
The story behind the word. Coined in the United States in the mid-20th century, combining Latin 'inter' (between) with 'state'. The term became ubiquitous following the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways Act of 1956.
Word relationships
- highway: Highway is a broader term covering any main public road, whereas Interstate strictly connects different states.
- expressway: Expressway emphasizes speed and controlled access, while Interstate specifically denotes inter-state connectivity.
- backroad: A backroad is a minor, rural road with low speed limits, opposite to a major high-speed highway.
Commonly confused with
- intrastate: Interstate means between different states; intrastate means strictly within a single state.
Word family
- interstate (adjective): Existing between or involving two or more states.
Collocations
- Interstate highway
- Interstate traffic
- Interstate travel
- Interstate commerce
Example sentences
- "The construction of the Interstate highway system drastically altered American trade and travel patterns." Non-fiction transportation literature
- "Taking the Interstate saved us three hours, though we missed the scenic small towns." Travel advice
Memory hook
Think 'inter' (between) + 'states' = a highway linking states. Inter-connects states.
When not to use
Do not use for local city streets or narrow rural backroads.
Fun facts
- Odd-numbered Interstates run north-south, while even-numbered ones run east-west in the US highway system.
Explore more words
express, intermodal, thoroughfare, intercom, Connectivity, drive-thru
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