Definition

A mechanical device that allows people to enter or exit a place, usually found in public areas like train stations or amusement parks, where it only lets one person through at a time.

Example

We had to use the turnstile to enter the subway station.

Conversation

Did you see that new turnstile they installed at the subway station?

Yeah, it looks really high-tech!

I wonder if it will make getting through faster.

I hope so; the old one was always so slow.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Turnstile → It is formed from "turn" (from Old English "turnian", meaning to rotate or revolve) and "stile" (from Old English "stigel", meaning a step or a way). The word "turnstile" refers to a gate that rotates to allow entry or exit, functioning as a step or passage that turns.

Memory Tip

Think of a gate that 'rotates' ('turn') to let you 'step' ('stile') through — that's how a turnstile works.

Visually Confused Words