Definition of avenue

The word "avenue" comes from the French language, where it is written as "avenue". In French, it refers to a wide street or a path of access to a place. The etymology of the word dates back to the 14th century, when it derived from the Latin "avena", meaning "oats". In the 15th century, French architects and gardeners began using the term "avenue" to describe a promenade or a walkway lined with trees, often in a park or garden. The use of the word "avenue" in English, specifically referring to a wide street or a boulevard, emerged in the 17th century. Initially, it was used to describe a grand, high-class street in a city. Over time, the term spread to other English-speaking countries, and today, an avenue is a common feature in urban planning.