In planning and modeling terminology, a node is a conjunction of several paths. Typically an important and developed area because it serves as a "break of bulk" point where people and goods are moved from one form of transportation to another. A seaport, airport, or train station would be good examples of nodes.

Because nodes are locate at the conjunction of multiple paths, locations providing goods and services to those traveling along the associated paths often spring up, a dynamic reinforced if a node is a "break of bulk" point.