Definition

1. Noun:
   • A high-speed expressway in a German-speaking country: Specifically refers to the network of controlled-access highways in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, known for having no federally mandated general speed limit on many sections.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • We drove from Berlin to Munich on the autobahn.
  • The autobahn is famous for its efficient engineering and, in parts, its unrestricted speed zones.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on the autobahn": to be driving on or traveling via this specific highway system.
  • He was on the autobahn for most of his journey across the country.
• "autobahn network": refers to the entire system of these highways.
  • The German autobahn network is one of the densest in Europe.

Variants and Related Words

• Autobahnen (n): The plural form of "autobahn," though "autobahns" is also commonly used in English.
  • We passed several major intersections on the autobahnen.

Synonyms

• Expressway: A divided highway for high-speed traffic with partial or full control of access.
• Freeway / Motorway: Terms used in other English-speaking regions for similar high-speed, controlled-access roads.

Related Phrases

• "Autobahn speed": Often used colloquially to refer to very high driving speeds.
  • He was cruising at autobahn speed on the open stretch of road.
• "Autobahn police": Refers to the highway patrol units responsible for these roads.
  • The autobahn police are very strict about tailgating.

Notes on Meaning

• The term is a loanword from German ( = car, = path/railway). While it specifically denotes the highways in German-speaking nations, in English it is often used with a strong cultural association to Germany's highway system and its reputation regarding speed. It is not a generic term for any highway.

Noun

1. an expressway in a German-speaking country