Basement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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basement

[หˆbeษชsmษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

room under the main floor of a house

A basement is a room or set of rooms below the surface of the ground in a building. It is typically used as a storage space or can be converted into living space. Basements are common in many homes and provide additional square footage.

Synonyms

cellar, subterranean room.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
basement

Typically refers to an underground part of a building, which is often used for storage, utility spaces, or additional living areas.

  • The basement has been converted into a home office
  • They store old furniture in the basement
cellar

Often used to describe an underground room in a house, specifically used for storing wine, food, or other perishables.

  • Their house has a wine cellar
  • They preserved vegetables in the cellar
subterranean room

Usually used in more formal or literary contexts to describe any room or space that is located underground.

  • The ancient city had several subterranean rooms used for secret meetings
  • The subterranean room was used as a bunker during the war

Examples of usage

  • The basement of our house is where we keep all our holiday decorations.
  • We are planning to finish the basement and turn it into a home office.

Translations

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

Origin of 'basement'

The word 'basement' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the base or bottom part of a building. Basements were originally used for storage and to house utilities such as furnaces and water heaters. Over time, basements have evolved to become versatile spaces that can serve various purposes in a home.


See also: abase, base, baseball, based, baseless, baselessly, basic, basin, basis, debase, debased, debasement.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,101 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.