1a wide way leading from one place to another, especially one with a specially prepared surface which vehicles can use:a country road [as modifier]:a road accident [in names]:they live at 15 Park Road [mass noun]:the shipment of freight by road
the part of a road intended for vehicles, especially in contrast to a verge or pavement:Clara had to walk in the road to avoid black plastic rubbish sacks
[with modifier] historical a regular trade route for a particular commodity:the Silk Road across Asia to the West
Mining an underground passage or gallery in a mine:he had to work in a road about six feet wide
North American a railroad.
British a railway track, especially as clear (or otherwise) for a train to proceed:they waited for a clear road at Hellifield Junction
2a series of events or a course of action that will lead to a particular outcome:he’s well on the road to recovery
a particular course or direction taken or followed:the low road of apathy and alienation
3 [often in place names] (usually roads) a partly sheltered stretch of water near the shore in which ships can ride at anchor:Boston Roads
down the road
informal, chiefly North American in the future:they couldn’t predict the disastrous war looming a few years down the road
informal in someone’s way:she kept getting in my road
one for the road
informal a final drink before leaving a place:police forces are saying don’t have one for the road—have none for the road
on the road
1on a long journey or series of journeys, especially as part of one’s job as a sales representative or a performer:she has accompanied Michael Jackson on the road
(of a person) without a permanent home and moving from place to place:he was trying to survive on the road and failing
2(of a car) in use; able to be driven:I’ve been trying to get my old MG Tourer back on the road
(often on-the-road) (of or with reference to the price of a motor vehicle) including the cost of licence plates, tax, etc., so the vehicle is fully ready for use on public roads:we found on-the-road prices from £5,780 to £6,151
out of the (or one's) road
informal out of someone’s way:I expect you’d like me out of the road
set out on a journey or series of journeys:the firm will take to the road for a programme of culinary eventspick up your car in Kuala Lumpur, then take to the road, booking your hotel for the following night as you go
