one-way

adjective

ˈwən-ˈwā How to pronounce one-way (audio)
Synonyms of one-waynext
1
: that moves in or allows movement in only one direction
a one-way street
2
: one-sided, unilateral
a one-way conversation
3
: that functions in only one of two or more ways

Examples of one-way in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, the Virgin Atlantic and Flying Blue fees can be exceptionally high at $700 to $1,000 one-way, and the points price on return flights is much higher. — Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 10 Aug. 2026 Russia is attempting to regain the initiative by upgrading its Geran family of one-way attack drones. — Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026 In New Zealand, Beyer planned for Ashbaugh to complete a one-way run through the Routeburn Track before ending the adventure with a day at Milford Sound. — Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026 The report states that based on each state’s net gain or loss of one-way U-Haul equipment in the 52-week timeframe, Baby Boomers are flocking to the Southeast, which makes sense considering the region is a hotspot for retirees and winter homes. — Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for one-way

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of one-way was in 1824

Rhymes for one-way

See All Rhymes for one-way

Browse Nearby Words

on everyone's/everybody's lips
one-way
one-way mirror
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“One-way.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/one-way. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

one-way

adjective
1
: moving or allowing movement in one direction only
2
: one-sided sense 1b

More from Merriam-Webster on one-way

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for one-way

Nglish: Translation of one-way for Spanish Speakers

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