turnstile

[ turn-stahyl ]

noun

1. a structure of four horizontally revolving arms pivoted atop a post and set in a gateway or opening in a fence to allow the controlled passage of people.
2. a similar device set up in an entrance to bar passage until a charge is paid, to record the number of persons passing through, etc.

turnstile

/ ˈtɜːnˌstaɪl /

noun

1. a mechanical gate or barrier with metal arms that are turned to admit one person at a time, usually in one direction only
2. any similar device that admits foot passengers but no large animals or vehicles
3. Also calledgatepost logic a symbol of the form ̃⊢, ⊨, or ⊩, used to represent logical consequence when inserted between expressions to form a sequent, or when prefixed to a single expression to indicate its status as a theorem

Word History and Origins

Origin of turnstile¹

First recorded in 1635–45; turn + stile ¹

Example Sentences

The first turnstile has already been installed in the Tronchetto district and is being used by select groups as a test run.

From The Daily Beast

The idea was that aggressively enforcing even minor crimes — like breaking a window or jumping a subway turnstile — was an effective way to prevent bigger crimes.

From Freakonomics

The crush of tourists had turned the UNESCO World Heritage site into something of a Disneyland with plans then in place to install turnstiles to control the flow in and out of the historical center.

From The Daily Beast

Science does not look for evidence to confirm a preference, such as the sweet sound of loud cheering and turnstiles spinning.

From Washington Post

Identity data is captured by cameras concealed as appears to be a normal turnstile.

From MIT Technology Review

Unfortunately Lauren is watching this entire scene wedged in the turnstile by the Maclaren.

From The Daily Beast

He jumps out, goes through the turnstile, and enters the next train as it pulls into the station.

From The Daily Beast

We were approaching the corner of Great Turnstile again, but I don't think she noticed it.

From Project Gutenberg

The old gentleman now took him by the arm, and led him more into the shade of the bridge—a few paces back from the turnstile.

From Project Gutenberg

For large entrances, notably for hotels and banks, a form of door working on the turnstile principle is frequently adopted.

From Project Gutenberg

Kim clicked round the self-registering turnstile; the old man followed and halted amazed.

From Project Gutenberg

The rest was lost in the clicking of the turnstile that let him through.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bar
• door
• doorway
• exit
• fence
• port