turnstile

American  

[turn-stahyl] / ˈtɜrnˌstaɪl /

noun

1. a structure of four horizontally revolving arms pivoted atop a post and set in a gateway or opening in a fence to allow the controlled passage of people.

2. a similar device set up in an entrance to bar passage until a charge is paid, to record the number of persons passing through, etc.

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turnstile British  

/ ˈtɜːnˌstaɪl /

noun

1. a mechanical gate or barrier with metal arms that are turned to admit one person at a time, usually in one direction only

2. any similar device that admits foot passengers but no large animals or vehicles

3. Also called: gatepost.  logic a symbol of the form ̃⊢, ⊨, or ⊩, used to represent logical consequence when inserted between expressions to form a sequent, or when prefixed to a single expression to indicate its status as a theorem

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Etymology

Origin of turnstile

First recorded in 1635–45; turn + stile ¹

Example Sentences

They managed to enter the main turnstile door to access the lobby but did not pass security gates that bar access to other parts of the building.

From BBC

He ran as fast as his legs would allow toward the subway, vaulting himself over the turnstiles and practically diving into the train car to make it on before the doors closed.

From Literature

New York’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority has confirmed that the MetroCard is being phased out at the end of this year in favor of OMNY, the tap-to-pay system that now dominates turnstiles across the city.

From Salon

Manchester United's club policy is that any ticket downloaded more than four times risks being blocked at the turnstile.

From BBC

As I spun around in my wheelchair, more of their group joined them through the turnstiles.

From BBC

Related Words

• bar
• door
• doorway
• exit
• fence
• port