■ noun
1》 a wide way between places, especially one surfaced for use by vehicles.
2》 a way to achieving a particular outcome.
3》 a partly sheltered stretch of water near the shore in which ships can ride at anchor: Boston Roads.
4》 N. Amer. a rail~.
↘ Brit. a railway track, especially as clear (or otherwise) for a train to proceed.
5》 an underground passage or gallery in a mine.
Phrases
down the ~ informal in the future.
in (or out of ) the (or one's) ~ informal in (or out of) someone's way.
one for the ~ informal a final alcoholic drink before leaving.
on the ~
1》 on a long journey or journeys.
↘without a permanent home and moving from place to place.
2》 (of a car) able to be driven.
Derivatives
~less adjective
Origin
OE rād 'journey on horseback, foray', of Gmc origin; related to ride .