Early 17th century; earliest use found in Thomas Adams (1583–1652), Church of England clergyman. In use with reference to France after French grand chemin or grand rue.
Definition of great road in US English:
great road
noun
historical, archaic
A main road, the principal highway.
Origin
Early 17th century; earliest use found in Thomas Adams (1583–1652), Church of England clergyman. In use with reference to France after French grand chemin or grand rue.