WordGarden.iostreet
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /strˈiːt/
US
- /ˈstrit/
Meanings
Noun
a public road in a town or city, usually lined with buildings
the financial industry or market opinion, especially as represented by Wall Street
Adjective
relating to city streets or informal public urban life, especially culture, style, or commerce
Beyond the definition
A street is more than a place where cars drive. It is a road in a town or city that connects homes, shops, and everyday life. You might live on Elm Street, walk down Main Street, or find a great bakery on Bleecker Street.
But "street" is not only a physical place. We talk about "life on the streets" to mean hardship and struggle, or "taking it to the streets" when people protest in public. A street address helps people find your home or office, and a "street-smart" person is someone who has learned from real-life experience. Think of Dickens's London, full of busy, shadowy streets and vivid characters.
The word "street" most commonly refers to a public road in a city or town, typically paved and lined with buildings. It serves as a pathway for vehicles, pedestrians, and commerce, connecting different parts of the community. For example: "The parade marched down Fifth Avenue," or "She grew up on a quiet residential street."
However, "street" has evolved beyond its literal meaning. It can represent a broader sense of public life and activity. Phrases like "the streets are dangerous at night" evoke a feeling of risk and vulnerability. To "take to the streets" means to protest or demonstrate publicly, expressing dissent or demanding change.
"Street smarts" describe practical intelligence gained from experience in everyday life, especially in tough or complex situations. This implies an understanding of people and circumstances that is not necessarily learned in a classroom.
Furthermore, "street" is important for identifying location. A "street address" gives the named road and number for a building or home, which is essential for mail delivery, directions, and emergency services. You might say, "His office is located at 123 Maple Street."
So, whether it is a physical pathway, a symbol of public life, a measure of intelligence, or a key to finding your way, the word "street" holds a surprisingly rich and multifaceted meaning within our language and culture.
Examples
- 1
Physical location
We found a small cafe on a quiet street near the station.
- 2
Position
Her office is just across the street from the bank.
- 3
Public space
Kids were playing in the street after school.
- 4
Street name
Turn left on King Street and keep walking until you see the park.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Direction
We walked down the street until we reached the river.
- 6
Food
They sell great street food at the night market.
- Phrasestreet food
food cooked and sold in public places
- 7
Homelessness
After losing his job, he ended up on the street for several months.
- Phraseon the street
without a home
- 8
Rumor
Word on the street is that the old cinema will reopen this summer.
- Phraseword on the street
what people are saying or believing
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- main street
- cross the street
- on the street
- street address
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- streetnoun
Forms
- streetspluralnoun