a movable barrier, usually on hinges, closing an opening in a fence, wall, or other enclosure.
2.
an opening permitting passage through an enclosure.
3.
a tower, architectural setting, etc., for defending or adorning such an opening or for providing a monumental entrance to a street, park, etc.: the gates of the walled city; the palace gate.
4.
any means of access or entrance: The gate to stardom is talent.
O.E. gæt (pl. geatu) "opening, passage," from P.Gmc. *gatan (cf. O.N., O.S., O.Fris., Du. gat "an opening"), of unknown origin. Meaning "money collected from selling tickets" dates from 1896. Gate-crasher is from 1927.