Highway or Broadway ?

Are the Highways high?

Highway is the term used for roads connecting main cities of the country. They are wide and well built but in no way seem high as the name suggests. These roads may rather be called broad ways.

In ancient civilizations of Rome and Greece, trading activity took place along the main roads connecting cities. But often the business persons were ambushed and robbed en route as the way cut through thick forests.

To make the business less risky, the kings decided to elevate the level of the sandy passage so that travelers could keep eye on the sides. It would also give them enough time to pre-empt the encounter. These elevated roads were called Highways because of their position above ground level.

The word has become popular over centuries and continues to be used for modern roads which are not necessarily high.