Langimage
English

detour

|de/tour|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈdiːtʊr/

🇬🇧

/ˈdiːtʊə/

alternative route

Etymology
Etymology Information

'detour' originates from French, specifically the word 'détour', where 'dé-' meant 'away' and 'tour' meant 'turn'.

Historical Evolution

'détour' transformed into the English word 'detour' and has been used in this form since the 18th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a turning away from the direct course', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a route that is different from the usual one, often used when the usual route is blocked or closed.

We had to take a detour because the main road was closed.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to take a different route to avoid something.

We detoured around the construction site.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45