Why is the Metro Called Subway in New York?

The term “subway” is used to refer to the underground rail system in New York City for historical reasons. When the New York City subway system was constructed in the early 20th century, the term “subway” was already widely used in London to describe their underground rail system. New York City adopted the term “subway” to refer to its own underground rail system, likely influenced by the use of the term in London.

The term “subway” itself comes from the fact that these rail systems are primarily located underground, beneath the city streets. The tunnels are typically constructed below ground level, allowing trains to operate beneath the surface, hence the name “subway.” This term has become common parlance in many cities around the world, including New York City.

It’s worth noting that the term “metro” is commonly used in many other cities to refer to their underground rail systems. The choice of terminology can vary depending on historical factors, cultural influence, and regional preferences. In the case of New York City, “subway” has become the accepted and widely recognized term for its underground rail network.