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Definition of headway

headway

/ˈhɛd.weɪ/
head · way
Plural:headways
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headway Lexical Profile

headway Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Forward movement or progress, especially when circumstances make advancing slow or difficult.

Example

"The research team has made significant headway in developing a more efficient solar panel."

2

The interval of time or distance between vehicles, such as trains or buses, traveling in the same direction along the same route.

Example

"During morning rush hour, the subway system operates with a three-minute headway between trains."

3

Overhead clearance beneath an arch, bridge, ceiling, or doorway.

Example

"The old stone tunnel lacked sufficient headway for modern double-decker buses to pass through."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for headway

• Nearby Words

headwaiter
headwater
headwaters
headway
headwear
headwind
headword

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 18th century as a nautical compound of 'head' and 'way', originally referring to the forward motion of a ship through the water.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Headway. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/headway
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