turnstile

[turn-stahyl]

noun

1. a structure of four horizontally revolving arms pivoted atop a post and set in a gateway or opening in a fence to allow the controlled passage of people.

2. a similar device set up in an entrance to bar passage until a charge is paid, to record the number of persons passing through, etc.

turnstile

/ ˈtɜːnˌstaɪl /

noun

1. a mechanical gate or barrier with metal arms that are turned to admit one person at a time, usually in one direction only

2. any similar device that admits foot passengers but no large animals or vehicles

3. Also called: gatepost. logic a symbol of the form ̃⊢, ⊨, or ⊩, used to represent logical consequence when inserted between expressions to form a sequent, or when prefixed to a single expression to indicate its status as a theorem

Word History and Origins

Origin of turnstile¹

First recorded in 1635–45; turn + stile ¹

Example Sentences

Editorials in this newspaper at the time railed against parking meters, with one declaring it would be “just as fair to install turnstiles for sidewalk pedestrians.”

From Los Angeles Times

Given this cash profit is generated by the day-to-day operations of the club, it only underlines United's appeal at the turnstile to sponsors and broadcasters - despite their poor performance on the pitch.

From BBC

Pink Floyd played to only a few hundred people, because there were too few turnstiles to allow the thousands of fans inside in time to see their set.

From BBC

Dark Universe is one of five lands at Epic Universe, the first major theme park to launch in the U.S. since 2001, when Disney California Adventure opened its turnstiles in Anaheim.

From Los Angeles Times

On this day, that turnstile created a chance encounter in the Seattle airport.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bar 
• door 
• doorway 
• exit 
• fence 
• port