Tollbooth
/ˈtoʊlˌbuːθ/noun
A structure where a fee is collected for passage on a road or bridge.
Did you know?The concept of tolls dates back to ancient Rome, where roads were built by private companies that charged fees—leading to corruption and unrest!
Etymological Timeline
Old English
Old English
toll
“a payment or tax for passage or service.”
Middle English
Middle English
tol
“a fee or tribute paid for passage, often collected at gates.”
14th Century
Middle English
tollbooth
“a booth or structure for collecting tolls.”
Modern English
English
tollbooth
“an establishment or structure for the collection of road or bridge fees.”