Ösvény

Ösvény is a Hungarian noun meaning a narrow footpath or trail, typically through natural terrain such as forests, meadows, or hills. It is narrower and less developed than a road (út) and is intended mainly for pedestrians. Ösvényes routes can form from repeated foot traffic or be created as part of a managed trail network; they may be marked by signs or simply indicated by the surrounding terrain and vegetation.

In maps, hiking guides, and park signage, ösvény is used to designate walking paths distinct from roads or vehicle routes. The term appears in everyday speech to describe physical routes and can also be used figuratively to denote a path in life or a course of activity.

Etymology is not extensively documented in general references; the word is considered native to Hungarian. The pronunciation is approximately [ˈøsvɛn͡j], and the spelling features the umlauted o (ö) and the digraph ny for a palatal nasal.

In recreation and conservation contexts, visitors are often encouraged to stay on established ösvények to protect ecosystems and for safety. Many protected areas contain networks of interconnected ösvények that connect villages, viewpoints, forests, and cultural sites.