Meaning and etymology of the term - Turnpike
Originating from 15th-century English, combining "turn" and "pike" (a pointed weapon or shaft).
It originally meant a spiked barrier or turnstile used to block roads and manage access.
By the 1670s, it referred to tollgate barriers that were "turned" to allow passage only after payment.
It originally meant a spiked barrier or turnstile used to block roads and manage access.
By the 1670s, it referred to tollgate barriers that were "turned" to allow passage only after payment.
