avenue
UK[ˈævənjuː]US[ˈævənuː]
n
a wide street in a town or city, often with trees along the sides
n
a method or way of achieving something
Morpheme Breakdown
a
venue
a
to
venue
come
Etymology
the word "avenue" entered english in the early 17th century from the french 'avenue', meaning 'a way of approach'. it is derived from the feminine past participle 'venue' of the verb 'venir' (to come), combined with the directional prefix 'a-' (from latin 'ad-', meaning 'to'). thus, its literal sense is "a way of coming to" a place. originally used for the approach or access road to a country house, often lined with trees, the meaning broadened in urban planning to denote any broad, principal street, and metaphorically to any means of access or method of attainment.
Analysis
Structure: a (to) + venue (come)
a- (from latin 'ad-', meaning 'to, towards'); venue (from old french 'venue', the feminine past participle of 'venir', meaning 'to come', from latin 'venire')
Examples
they live on a quiet, tree-lined avenue.
the company is exploring new avenues for investment.
fifth avenue in new york is famous for its luxury shops.