noun
important road; main road
Refers to a road that is strategically or practically important, such as a major thoroughfare or a key route.
この街道は古くから交通の要路として栄えた。
This highway has flourished since ancient times as an important traffic route.
noun
important position; influential post; the authorities
Figurative extension of sense 1: a position of influence or authority, often in government or an organization. Can also refer collectively to people in such positions.
彼は政界の要路に立つ人物だ。
He is a person who holds an influential position in the political world.
要路の意向を探る必要がある。
We need to gauge the intentions of the authorities.
Compound of 要 (important, essential) and 路 (road, path). The figurative sense derives from the idea of a road being a crucial conduit, extended to positions of influence.