single-lane
UK[ˈsɪŋɡl leɪn]US[ˈsɪŋɡl leɪn]
adj
Having only one lane for traffic moving in a single direction.
Morpheme Breakdown
single
lane
single
one
lane
roadway path
Etymology
The compound adjective "single-lane" is a modern formation from two distinct Old English roots, combined to describe a specific road infrastructure feature. "Single" traces back to the Latin singulus, meaning "one" or "individual," which entered English via Old French. "Lane" originates from the Old English lanu, referring to a narrow way or path. The logical construction is perfectly transparent: a "lane" that is "single" or singular in number, directly conveying the meaning of a roadway with only one path for traffic flow, typically in one direction at a time. This compound exemplifies the Germanic tendency in English to create precise, descriptive terms by combining existing words.
Analysis
Structure: single (one) + lane (roadway path)
- single: From Latin singulus (one, individual). Functional role: Adjective root meaning "one".
- lane: From Old English lanu (a narrow road, path). Functional role: Noun root meaning "a defined path for vehicular traffic".
Examples
The old bridge was reduced to a single-lane crossing, controlled by traffic lights.
Be prepared to stop on single-lane roads to allow oncoming vehicles to pass.
The highway construction created a lengthy single-lane bottleneck during rush hour.