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Alfresco Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alfresco

[alหˆfreskษ™สŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

outdoor dining

In the context of dining, alfresco means eating outside, typically in a garden or patio setting. It is a popular choice during warm weather.

Synonyms

open-air, outdoor, patio.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alfresco

Used to describe dining or activities that take place outside, often in a garden or terrace, usually in a casual and enjoyable setting.

  • We will have an alfresco dinner in the backyard tonight.
  • The cafรฉ offers alfresco seating with a view of the park.
outdoor

Describes any activity, event, or space that takes place outside a building, not necessarily in a landscaped or designed setting.

  • We enjoy outdoor sports like hiking and biking.
  • The outdoor festival attracts thousands of visitors every year.
open-air

Refers to anything that is conducted outside without any roof or walls, not limited to dining but also for events, concerts, or markets.

  • There is an open-air concert in the city square this weekend.
  • The museum has an open-air exhibit of ancient sculptures.
patio

Specifically refers to a paved outdoor area adjoining a house, used for dining, lounging, or other activities, often with furniture and decorative elements.

  • We'll have a barbecue on the patio this Saturday.
  • She loves to read on her patio during the summer.

Examples of usage

  • We decided to have lunch alfresco on the terrace.
  • The restaurant offers alfresco dining options with a beautiful view of the lake.
Context #2 | Adverb

cooking

In cooking, alfresco is used to describe food that is prepared and served in the open air. It often implies a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

Synonyms

open-air, outdoor, outside.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alfresco

Typically used to describe dining or social activities that take place in an open-air environment, often suggesting a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

  • We're having an alfresco dinner on the terrace tonight.
  • The hotel offers an alfresco cafe with a beautiful view.
outdoor

Used broadly to describe any activity, space, or setting that is outside a building. It emphasizes the contrast between indoor and outdoor environments.

  • She enjoys outdoor sports like hiking and kayaking.
  • They are planning an outdoor wedding to make the most of the summer weather.
outside

Usually refers to being beyond the confines of a building or structure. It is the most general term and can be used in various situations, both casual and formal.

  • Please take your shoes off before coming inside from outside.
  • He waited outside the restaurant for his friend to arrive.
open-air

Often used to describe theaters, markets, or events that take place outdoors. It suggests the absence of a roof and walls, highlighting the natural setting.

  • We went to an open-air concert in the park.
  • The village hosts an open-air market every Saturday.

Examples of usage

  • We grilled the fish alfresco in the backyard.
  • The picnic included alfresco dining with sandwiches and salads.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'alfresco'

The word 'alfresco' comes from Italian, where 'al fresco' translates to 'in the fresh air.' It has been used in English since the mid-18th century to refer to outdoor dining or activities. The popularity of alfresco dining has grown in recent years, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating options.

See also: fresco.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,339, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.