alleyway

American  

[al-ee-wey] / ˈæl iˌweɪ /

noun

1. an alley or lane.

2. a narrow passageway.

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alleyway British  

/ ˈælɪˌweɪ /

noun

1. a narrow passage; alley

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Usage

What is an alleyway? An alleyway is a narrow passage between buildings or other structures.Alleyway can also refer to a narrow path or passage behind a row of houses, such as one that allows access to garages and back yards.The word alley means the same thing.Example: We took a shortcut through the narrow alleyway between the shops.

Etymology

Origin of alleyway

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90; alley ¹ + way ¹

Example Sentences

Glancing over my shoulder to make sure they’re not following me, I break into a run, dart left down an alleyway and around the corner, increasing the distance between me and him.

From Literature

So great was Fred’s control that he had not ducked out the alleyway exit, but came strolling back through the shop.

From Literature

They can only get there via a tour, navigating a maze of narrow alleyways as residents go about their daily lives while stopping to visit local artists or see a capoeira show.

From Barron's

I edged closer to the top of the alleyway, staying close to the wall, keeping to the shadows.

From Literature

In China, red lanterns could guide a traveller to safety in cold winter alleyways, be symbols of power outside an imperial hall, or act as a call to religious devotion when hung in a temple.

From BBC