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noun

roadmap

ROHD-map

Roadmap (noun) means a plan setting out what will be done, in what order, over a period of time. Example: “The team published a roadmap for the next four releases.”

noun
1
A plan setting out what will be done, in what order, over a period of time.
"The team published a roadmap for the next four releases."
"Ministers agreed a roadmap for lifting restrictions."
2
A map showing the roads of an area, for drivers.
"There was a coffee-stained roadmap of France in the glovebox."
verb
1
business To plan something out in stages.
"We've roadmapped the migration through to next summer."

How to Use Roadmap

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA plan showing what happens next and when.

When to use it

Written as one word in the planning sense; the literal driving map is sometimes two words (road map). Very common in software, politics and business — common enough to read as corporate filler if overused.

Memory tip

Saying a feature is 'on the roadmap' means it is planned but not yet scheduled precisely — it is a soft commitment, not a date.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
product roadmap roadmap to publish a roadmap on the roadmap
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Fill the Gap

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The team published a _____ for the next four releases.

Etymology

A compound of road and map; the planning sense is a metaphorical extension of the literal one.

Origin: English

plan strategy timeline schedule blueprint road atlas street map plan out chart

Related Words

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a roadmap and a plan?

A plan can be detailed and short-range, listing specific tasks and owners. A roadmap sits above that: it shows the sequence and rough timing of larger goals so people can see the direction, without committing to exact dates or steps.

What is a product roadmap?

It is a summary of what a product team intends to build and roughly when, usually grouped into themes or quarters rather than fixed dates. It is meant to communicate priorities to customers and colleagues, and is expected to change as circumstances do.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from FreeDict original editorial