1. highways that encircle a city or metropolitan area
2. the political establishment and culture of Washington, D.C.
Usage: informal; often capitalized as 'the Beltway'

Examples

• Traffic on the city's beltways was heavy during rush hour.
• The new shopping center is located just off one of the major beltways.
• Many commuters use the beltways to avoid driving through downtown.
• The senator criticized the influence of Washington beltways on national policy.
• Local politicians often distance themselves from beltway politics.
• The beltways around major cities help reduce congestion in urban centers.