Türn'pike1, n.
n. 1. A frame consisting of two bars crossing each other at right angles, and turning on a post or pin, to hinder the passage of beasts, but admitting a person to pass between the arms; a turnstile. [Obs.] I move upon my axle like a turnpike. B. Jonson. “They seem originally to have belonged to fortifications, the points being made sharp to prevent the approach of horses; they were, therefore, pikes to turn back assailants.” Nares.
- A gate set across a road to stop travelers and carriages till toll is paid for keeping the road in repair.
- A turnpike-road.
- A winding stairway. [Scot.] W. Scott.
- (Mil.) A beam filled with spikes to obstruct passage. [Rare.]