make way

phrase

Synonyms of make waynext
1
: to give room for passing, entering, or occupying
… many of the old villas were being torn down to make way for high rises …—William Murray
2
: to make progress

Examples of make way in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Others are at risk of being torn down to make way for more profitable projects. — Jack Flemming, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026 Conoco's legendary boss, Ryan Lance, has made way for Andrew O'Brien. — Brian Sullivan, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026 Also known as AHAs, these chemical exfoliants loosen the bonds that hold dead cells together, making way for smoother, brighter, and more even-looking skin. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026 The Santa Maria Addolorata Church in West Town is being demolished to make way for six new homes. — Marissa Perlman, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for make way

Word History

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of make way was in the 12th century

Rhymes for make way

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Browse Nearby Words

make waves
make way
makeweight
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Cite this Entry

“Make way.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20way. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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