passimeter

passimeter

A traveler inserts a ticket into the passimeter to enter the subway station.

Definition

Noun (countable): A device, typically used in public transportation (such as a subway or railway), that automatically controls entry by allowing only one person to pass at a time after a ticket or card is inserted or scanned.

Usage Examples
  • (An automatic gate that lets one person through per ticket.)
  • (The machine that validates the ticket and opens the gate.)
  • (The automatic entry gate stopped working properly.)
Advanced Usage
  • "passimeter system": a network of such automated gates.
    • The entire subway line now uses a passimeter system for entry. (All stations have automated ticket-checking gates.)
  • "passimeter control": the regulation of passenger access via these devices.
    • Passimeter control ensures that only ticketed passengers enter the platform. (The gate system prevents unauthorized entry.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Passimeter (n): the device itself; no common variants or derived forms in standard English.
Synonyms
  • Ticket gate: a barrier that opens after a ticket is validated.
  • Turnstile: a mechanical gate that rotates to allow one person through, often used with a coin or card.
  • Access gate: a general term for a gate controlling entry.
Related Idioms

There are no common idioms that include "passimeter," as it is a technical term.

Phrasal Verbs

No phrasal verbs are formed with "passimeter."

Notes on Usage
  • Context: The word "passimeter" is highly specialized, used primarily in transportation engineering, station management, or technical descriptions of subway/train systems.
  • Formality: It is a formal, technical term. In everyday conversation, people might say "ticket gate" or "turnstile" instead.