a road that crosses another road, or one that runs transversely to main roads.

a by-road.

Often, crossroads. ( used with a singular or plural verb )

the place where roads intersect.

a point at which a vital decision must be made.

a main center of activity.

noun

byroad , intersection , climacteric , exigence , exigency , head , juncture , pass , turning point , zero hour