Synonyms for

Pave

Verb / peɪv / Another word for pave — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To cover a surface with material such as concrete or asphalt to make a road or sidewalk.

Synonyms & similar words

surface cement concrete asphalt tar macadamize tarmac flagstone cobblestone brick tile pavement floor drive alley path sidewalk walkway footpath

Synonyms by register

Formal

surface prepare construct lay

Informal

cover lay down put down

Literary

adorn embellish

Antonyms

hinder obstruct block impede delay stop prevent

Common collocations

  • pave the way
  • pave a road
  • pave a path
  • pave the street
  • pave the driveway
  • pave the ground
  • pave over

Word family

noun pavement
verb pave
adjective paved

Usage note

The phrase 'pave the way' is a common idiom meaning to make a later event or course of events possible or easier. It is often used metaphorically.

Example sentences

  1. The city will pave the streets to make them smoother for driving.
  2. The construction crew will pave the walkway with bricks.
  3. The parking lot was paved with asphalt to prevent potholes.
  4. The alley was paved with cobblestone to give it a unique look.
  5. The new sidewalk will be paved next week.

Quotes

  • The road to success is always under construction. - Lily Tomlin
  • The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones. - Confucius
  • The path to success is paved with hard work.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words