Street Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Street, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Street?

(n) A street is a road or way maintained by the municipality or local authority and used by the public to commute. Two conditions exists. It is maintained by the local administration and it is open for public. So road in a military camp cannot be a street as well as a private road leading to a villa cannot be a street

History and Meaning of Street

The word 'street' finds its roots in the Old English word 'strate,' meaning a paved highway. The term was used to describe a path made of stone or bricks designed for smoother transportation. Today, in cities and towns across the world, a street refers to a public road maintained by the local authority, designed for the movement of vehicles and pedestrians alike.

A street must meet two criteria, to be considered a street. First, it must be maintained by the municipality or local authority. Second, it must be open to the public. Hence, a private road leading to a villa or a road in a military camp would not qualify as a street.

Examples of Street

  1. The famous Times Square is a bustling street located in New York City, USA, and famous for its iconic billboards, shopping centers, and entertainment hubs.

  2. The Champs-Elysées is much loved street in the Parisian city, France, famous for its fashionable cafes, shopping arcades, and beautiful statues.

  3. Orchard Road is Singapore's most famous shopping district, locally loved for its street performances, luxury malls, and jaw-dropping entertainment centers.

Legal Terms Similar to Street

  1. Public Highway - A highway for public use and maintained by the state, province, or government.
  2. Cul-de-Sac - A dead-end street with only one entrance/exit point, often found in housing estates.
  3. Boulevard - A street with multiple lanes and adorned with a central strip of trees or grass.