aisle
noun (countable)
UK/aɪl/US/aɪl/
a passage or corridor between rows of seats, shelves, or other long structures, typically in a building or vehicle
Example Sentences
She walked down the aisle of the church during the wedding ceremony.
The flight attendant moved through the airplane aisle, offering drinks and snacks to the passengers.
He found the flour in the baking aisle at the supermarket.
The theater aisles must be kept clear for safety reasons, particularly during emergency evacuations.
When planning a large wedding, the bride’s entrance down the aisle is often one of the most memorable moments for guests, complete with music, decor, and emotional anticipation.
Many libraries organize their collections by subject along spacious aisles, allowing patrons to browse for books, study quietly, and discover new resources in a relaxed atmosphere.
She preferred an aisle seat on long flights, valuing the extra mobility it provided.
Children running in the grocery store aisle can create hazards, so parents are reminded to supervise them closely.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
A narrow walkway separating sections of seats, shelves, or areas.Use “aisle” to describe a passage or corridor between rows of chairs, pews, store shelves, or airplane seats. For instance, in a grocery store, aisles separate different sections of products; in a theater or church, the aisle allows people to walk to their seats. The term often appears in contexts like weddings, referring to the bride or couple “walking down the aisle.” In transportation, airplane aisles let travelers move to their seats or restrooms. When referencing an aisle, consider specifying its location and purpose—for example, “Take the first aisle on the left to find produce,” or “The exit row is located near the plane’s second aisle.” This clarity helps readers or listeners navigate large venues or spaces more easily. In general, “aisle” implies an unobstructed path specifically designed to guide movement or organize the layout. Whether you’re discussing seating arrangements, shopping areas, or ceremonial walks, “aisle” signals a clear, purposeful channel for transit or formal processions.
Alternatives
Synonyms or related terms to “aisle” vary with context. “Corridor” or “passage” applies to hallways and walkways but might not capture the specific idea of space between rows. “Lane” can be used for designated narrow pathways but is more common for roads or organized lines. “Walkway” highlights a path for pedestrians, but typically not between fixed seating or shelving. “Row” can indicate a line of seats or shelves, though it doesn’t focus on the space separating them. Phrases like “passageway” or “footpath” can work if you aim for broader language, but they don’t quite replicate the familiarity of “aisle,” especially in retail or event contexts. If you’re specifically referring to movement through seats in a theater, “aisle seat” is a standard phrase for the seat adjacent to that open pathway. Each alternative shifts emphasis slightly—“corridor” suggests a more enclosed area, while “lane” leans toward traffic flow on roads—so “aisle” remains the best term for describing the open space dividing rows in stores, planes, or gatherings.
Writing
When writing about “aisles,” be precise about their function and environment. In a descriptive narrative, you might set the scene by mentioning how wide the aisle is or what lines its edges—like shelves stacked with groceries or rows of folding chairs at a wedding. If you’re penning a guide or manual (e.g., describing seating charts in a large venue), specifying aisle numbers or labeling them helps users navigate better—“Please proceed to Aisle 5 for dairy items.” In fiction, an aisle can become a focal point for dramatic events—think of a protagonist dramatically entering down the aisle at a crucial moment. Providing sensory details—like the polished floor or the hush of footsteps—immerses readers in the experience. Meanwhile, if discussing logistics or architecture, you might elaborate on how wide aisles must be for safe passage or how they’re arranged for efficient shopping flow. Each usage underscores the aisle’s central role: organizing space and guiding movement for people, carts, or ceremonies.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “aisle” pops up when talking about locations in stores, theaters, or airplanes: “I’ll meet you in the snack aisle,” or “We’re sitting on the aisle so we can leave quickly at intermission.” Friends might joke about “the cereal aisle,” implying that’s where they get stuck gazing at colorful boxes. “Aisle seat” is a go-to phrase when you prefer extra legroom or easy access to the bathroom on a plane. If you’re describing a wedding, people often mention “walking down the aisle,” focusing on that traditional entrance. In casual talk, “aisle” remains straightforward—everyone knows it’s the open space for passing or the key dividing section in larger public layouts. Whether you’re chatting about shopping or picking the best seat at a concert, “aisle” signals that corridor-like spot that simplifies movement and helps folks find their way around.
Etymology
The word “aisle” traces back to Middle English, originally spelled “ile” or “ele,” derived from the Old French “aille,” which in turn came from Latin “ala,” meaning “wing.” In early architecture, the “wing” of a building, such as a cathedral, referred to the extended, often vaulted areas to the side of the nave (central area). Over centuries, the pronunciation and spelling evolved, merging with “isle,” the French word for “island,” though the meanings diverged—“isle” became a landmass surrounded by water, while “aisle” stayed tied to passages within buildings. This etymological nuance highlights how architectural vocabulary can adapt from broader Latin roots to describe specific elements, like church wings turned walkways. Nowadays, “aisle” is firmly anchored in modern usage for that open space dividing rows of seats or goods in stores, halls, theaters, or other venues.