shunpike
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈʃʌnˌpaɪk/
KK: /ˈʃʌnˌpaɪk/
intransitive verb
Definition
To travel on smaller roads instead of main highways, especially to avoid tolls.
Example
We decided to shunpike to save money on tolls during our road trip.
Tense Forms
Past: shunpiked
Past Participle: shunpiked
Conversation
Have you ever thought about taking a shunpike instead of the highway?
I haven't, but it sounds like a fun adventure!
Yeah, it could be nice to explore some back roads.
Definitely! You might discover some hidden gems along the way.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
detour
bypass
divert
Antonyms
converge
approach
enter
noun
Definition
A side road that people use to avoid paying tolls or to escape heavy traffic on a main road.
Example
We took a shunpike to avoid the tolls on the highway.
Conversation
I found a great shunpike that avoids all the tolls on our way to the beach.
Really? That sounds like a smart move to save some money.
Yeah, and it should help us avoid the traffic as well.
Root Explanation
Shunpike originates from the combination of 'shun' (from Old English 'sunnan', meaning to avoid) and 'pike' (from Middle English 'pike', meaning a toll road). The term refers to a road that is taken to avoid paying tolls on a pike or toll road.
Memory Tip
Think of 'shunning' or avoiding something, which helps you remember that a 'shunpike' is a road taken to avoid tolls.
Visually Confused Words
unspike
sunlike
hunlike