Pronunciation: [pˈaθwe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "pathway" refers to a route or track that leads from one place to another. It is spelled as /ˈpæθweɪ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with the short /æ/ vowel sound, followed by the voiceless dental fricative /θ/ and the diphthong /weɪ/ that ends with the /eɪ/ sound. The spelling of "pathway" reflects its Latin roots, with "path-" meaning "way" and "-way" meaning "a path or route".
A pathway is a designated route or course that is typically established to facilitate movement, guide people, or provide a conduit for something to flow or travel through. It is a clearly defined and often built or marked route that enables individuals to navigate from one point to another with ease, safety, and efficiency. Pathways can take various forms, including trails, walkways, lanes, or corridors, and can be found in natural settings, urban areas, parks, or buildings.
In a more abstract sense, a pathway can refer to the sequential series of steps or stages that lead to a specific outcome or achievement. It involves a progression or course of action that is followed in order to reach a desired goal or result. This can apply to various domains, such as education, career development, personal growth, or scientific research.
Furthermore, a pathway can also pertain to a specific route or channel within the body or any living organism through which fluids, nerve impulses, electricity, or substances are directed. Examples of biological pathways include blood vessels, nerve pathways, or biochemical routes involved in metabolic or signaling processes.
Overall, the term "pathway" conveys the notion of a defined route or course, either physical, metaphorical, or physiological, that guides and directs movement, development, or flow toward a specific destination or objective.
• A narrow way to be walked on; a road.
• See path.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pathway" is derived from two roots: "path" and "way".
1. "Path": This word can be traced back to the Old English word "pæþ", which means "a trodden track, a way, course, or route". It is also related to the Middle Dutch word "pad" and the Old High German word "pfad". All of these words have the same meaning as "path". Ultimately, "path" originates from the Proto-Germanic word "*paþaz".
2. "Way": This word can be traced back to the Old English word "weg", which means "a track for traveling, a road". It is related to the High German word "weg", Latin word "via", and the Greek word "odos", all of which share the same meaning. The Proto-Indo-European root "*wegh-" is the origin of this term.
