one-way

American  

[wuhn-wey] / ˈwʌnˈweɪ /

adjective

1. moving, or allowing movement in one direction only.

   a one-way street.

2. valid for travel in one direction only.

   a one-way ticket.

3. without a reciprocal feeling, responsibility, relationship, etc..

   It's a one-way friendship.

4. not intended for return to a seller, dealer, etc., for reuse; disposable.

   one-way bottles.

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one-way British  

adjective

1. moving or allowing travel in one direction only

   one-way traffic

2. entailing no reciprocal obligation, action, etc

   a one-way agreement

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Etymology

Origin of one-way

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

England headed to Australia with high hopes, but it has been mostly one-way traffic despite the series being hyped beforehand as having the hallmarks of being a classic.

From Barron's

On this rainy, late-summer afternoon, Thomas and I are chatting about the Mayer Theatre, an Art Deco throwback a few blocks and a sturdy one-way bridge away on Hebron’s main street.

From Salon

“So, let’s have that evolve now that we are in a position where our technologies benefit the U.S. It’s not just a one-way street. It’s a real partnership.”

From The Wall Street Journal

For instance, sending out a one-way survey to gather employee opinions is great.

From The Wall Street Journal

They booked a one-way ticket from Chicago to Los Angeles and for a month helped members of the congregation as they sifted through the ruins of their homes.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• fee
• gift
• money
• perk
• reward