side street

noun

1. a street leading away from a main street; an unimportant street or one carrying but little traffic.

side street

noun

1. a minor or unimportant street, esp one leading off a main thoroughfare

Word History and Origins

Origin of side street¹

First recorded in 1610–20

Idioms and Phrases

A minor thoroughfare that carries little traffic, as in Our favorite hotel is on a quiet little side street. The side in this idiom means “off to one side, away from the main street.” [c. 1600] Also see back street.