Backyard: meaning, definitions and examples

An outdoor area located behind a house, typically used for recreational activities, gardening, or relaxing. It is often private and primarily associated with residential spaces.

• We had a BBQ party in our backyard last weekend
• The kids love playing in the backyard

An outdoor area dedicated to growing plants, such as flowers, vegetables, or herbs. It can be part of a backyard or a separate space and is often tended for aesthetic or food production purposes.

• She spends her weekends tending to her vegetable garden
• The roses in their garden are blooming beautifully this season

A general term for an open outdoor area around a house. It can refer to both the front yard and back yard and may include lawns, gardens, and other features. It is commonly used in both residential and more general contexts.

• They installed a new fence around their yard
• The kids are playing soccer in the yard

An open space that is enclosed by buildings or walls, commonly found in larger buildings like schools, apartment complexes, or historic homes. It is usually paved and can be used for gatherings or outdoor events.

• The school has a beautiful courtyard where students can relax during breaks
• The hotel’s courtyard includes a lovely garden and a fountain

This word is mistakenly listed twice, but it has already been explained in the first entry.

Used more generally to describe any outside area, not necessarily just behind a house. It can include front yards, patios, terraces, and other exterior areas.

• The villa has a spacious outdoor space perfect for gatherings.
• We are looking for a house with a nice outdoor space.

More commonly used in British English to describe the garden area at the back of the house.

• She spends a lot of time in the back garden, tending to her flowers.
• They built a small pond in their back garden.