gateway

American  

[geyt-wey] / ˈgeɪtˌweɪ /

noun

1. an entrance or passage that may be closed by a gate.

2. a structure for enclosing such an opening or entrance.

3. any passage by or point at which a region may be entered.

   New York soon became the gateway to America.

4. Digital Technology.

   1. software or hardware that connects two disparate computer networks, as to enable the passage of information between a home or business network and the internet.

   2. software that facilitates digital communication of text messages over cellular telephone networks.

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adjective

1. relating to or noting an ingested substance, habit, activity, etc., that is relatively free of bad effects but may lead to more dangerous or extreme choices.

   sweet gateway drinks that mask the taste of alcohol;

   gateway gadgets that seem simple enough, but tempt you to buy expensive accessories.

gateway British  

/ ˈɡeɪtˌweɪ /

noun

1. an entrance that may be closed by or as by a gate

2. a means of entry or access

   Mumbai, gateway to India

3. (modifier) allowing entry, access, or progress to a more extreme form

   gateway drug

   gateway drink

4. computing hardware and software that connect incompatible computer networks, allowing information to be passed from one to another

5. a software utility that enables text messages to be sent and received over digital cellular telephone networks

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Etymology

Origin of gateway

First recorded in 1700–10; gate ¹ + way ¹

Example Sentences

Ask anyone where L.A.’s Black mecca is and they will more than likely point you to Leimert Park, so it’s understandable why this is a top pick for the gateway to the Historic South L.A.

From Los Angeles Times

A spokesperson for Evie described the outlet as social-first, noting that Instagram and TikTok serve as the gateway to its content, with engagement rates that “rival and even outperform those of legacy giants.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“It was an entryway, a gateway product to the brand.”

From The Wall Street Journal

I let the mint begin to melt while trying to pretend it’s a gateway to a dream state.

From Los Angeles Times

“How were you able to come through the gateway? Leigh said it was too small for anyone.”

From Literature