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.

---

Main Street ² American  

noun

1. a novel (1920) by Sinclair Lewis.

---

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

---

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

"A busy bakery we've supported on the main street of Cookstown can't move into a bigger premises because they cannot get a water connection," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

“We buy gold” signs line the town’s main street.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 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

The long main street went downhill and then fetched up at the water.

From "Homecoming" by Cynthia Voigt