main street

¹ American  

noun

1. the principal thoroughfare, especially through the business district, in a small town.

2. (initial capital letters) the outlook, environment, or life of a small town.

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Main Street ² American  

noun

1. a novel (1920) by Sinclair Lewis.

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Main Street British  

noun

1. the most prominent street of a town, usually where the principal shops and businesses are situated

2. ordinary people in general

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Etymology

Origin of main street

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

At their home, a large one-story villa off a dirt road leading to the town’s main street, Scott introduces me to a lifestyle designed to promote wellness.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

Sharjah's main street was completely flooded early on Friday, with residents seen wading through it in bare feet.

From Barron's • Dec. 19, 2025

We spent around 90 minutes on the main street talking to passers-by.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2025

On every main street you can find a neon sign advertising psychic services.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2025

So to walk down the main street was to walk between the graves of our ancestors.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson