by-path

or by·path

[ bahy-path, -pahth ]

noun

, plural by-paths [bahy, -pa, th, z, -pah, th, z, -paths, -pahths].

1. a private path or an indirect or secondary course or means; byway.

Word History and Origins

Origin of by-path¹

1325–75; Middle English bi path. See by (adj.), path

Example Sentences

Along this by-path, and concealed behind the thick foliage of the orchards, the Mussulmans reached the mountain of Uhud before sunrise, without having been caught sight of by their foes.

From Project Gutenberg

As she crossed the by-path we have already mentioned, she thought of the little spring, and how refreshing it would be to drink of its cool water.

From Project Gutenberg

He passed his own dwelling without stopping, but hurried on, directing his steps to the north, through a by-path amidst the towering pines.

From Project Gutenberg

Just as he spoke, the band issued forth from the little by-path which they had been pursuing, into one of the main roads through the wood, and saw before them, at the distance of about a hundred yards, an old grey stone cross, raised upon several steps, in the very centre of the road, marking the spot where two ways crossed.

From Project Gutenberg

I half wish I had not a story to tell,—that is, that I had not a certain road to take,—that I might wander at will through by-path and lane, and linger on the memories thus by a chance awakened!

From Project Gutenberg