CAUSE, that from which anything proceeds, or by virtue of which anything is done; or an antecedent relatively to an invariable consequent. It stands opposed to effect. See Metaphysics.

CAUSEWAY, or Causey, a massive construction of stones, stakes, and fascines, or an elevation of fat viscous earth, well beaten, serving either as a road in wet marshy places, or as a mole to retain the waters of a pond, or prevent a river from overflowing the lower grounds. See Road. The word is derived from the French chaussée, anciently written chausée; and that, again, from the Latin calceata, or calcata, which, according to Sonner and Spelman, comes a calcando.

Causeway most generally signifies a common raised way, maintained and repaired with stones and rubbish.