Gateway

/ˈɡeɪtˌweɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A point of entry or exit, often providing access to a location or system.
The small archway served as a gateway to the beautiful garden.
A means of achieving or approaching something.
Education is often seen as a gateway to better job opportunities.
In computing, a device that connects two different networks, allowing data traffic to flow between them.
The network gateway allowed the office computers to access the internet.
A passage or entrance, particularly in regard to a city or town.
The city of Rome has several ancient gateways that date back to the empire.

Etymology

Middle English: from 'gate' + 'way', meaning a way to a gate.

Common Phrases and Expressions

gateway drug
A substance that potentially leads to the use of more dangerous drugs.
gateway to success
An opportunity that leads to achieving success.
open the gateway
To enable access or entry to something.

Related Words

portal
A website or page that acts as a gateway to other sites or information.
entrance
The place of entering something.
access
The means of approaching or entering a place.

Slang Meanings

An easy way to achieve something.
That concert was my gateway to meeting all the right people in the industry.
A starting point for new experiences.
Traveling abroad was the gateway I needed to explore the world.