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Definition of tollgate

tollgate

/ˈtoʊl.ɡeɪt/
toll · gate
Plural:tollgates
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tollgate Lexical Profile

tollgate Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A barrier across a road, bridge, or tunnel where drivers must stop and pay a fee before being allowed to pass.

Example

"Traffic backed up for half a mile as commuters waited to pass through the highway tollgate."

2

A formal review point or milestone in project management at which specific criteria must be met before a project can proceed to the next phase.

Example

"The engineering team must present their safety test results at the next project tollgate before manufacturing can begin."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for tollgate

• Nearby Words

toll
tollbooth
tollbridge
tollgate
tollhouse
tollkeeper
tollway

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 18th century as a compound of 'toll' (from Old English 'toln', denoting a tax or payment) and 'gate' (from Old English 'geat', meaning an opening or barrier).

Cite this Entry

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