General
the ike
What does the ike mean?
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Expressway, one of several Chicago highways referred to by name with 'the.'
"Take the Ike out to Oak Park."
Origin
Nickname from President Eisenhower; Chicagoans name expressways ('the Kennedy,' 'the Stevenson,' 'the Dan Ryan').
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ike in Chicago?
It is the local nickname for the Dwight D. Eisenhower Expressway, Interstate 290.
Why is it called the Ike?
The nickname comes from President Dwight 'Ike' Eisenhower, after whom the expressway is named.
Do Chicagoans nickname other expressways too?
Yes, Chicagoans routinely name highways with 'the,' such as the Kennedy, the Stevenson, and the Dan Ryan.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
