Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Dacha Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿก
Add to dictionary

dacha

[หˆdษ‘ห.tสƒษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

rural retreat

A dacha is a Russian term that refers to a seasonal or year-round second home located in the exurbs of Russian cities, particularly in the countryside. These homes often serve as a place for relaxation and recreation, where families might grow vegetables or flowers during the warmer months. Originally, dachas were informal country residences for the aristocracy, but over time they became accessible to the broader population, especially among city dwellers seeking an escape from urban life. Dachas typically feature gardens and are a cornerstone of recreational culture in Russia.

Synonyms

cottage, country house, summer house.

Examples of usage

  • During summer, we often escape to our dacha for some relaxation.
  • The dacha is where he spends his weekends gardening.
  • They invited us to their new dacha for a barbecue.
  • Every year, we take a trip to the dacha to enjoy the fresh air.

Translations

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

Origin of 'dacha'

The term 'dacha' has its roots in the Russian language, deriving from the verb 'dat', which means 'to give'. Initially coined in the 18th century, the word came to signify a house given for temporary occupationโ€”a seasonal retreat, primarily for the gentry and upper-class Russians. Over the centuries, the concept of a dacha evolved, and during the Soviet era, many citizens were granted the right to own dachas as a means to escape the harsh realities of city life. Thus, dachas became symbols of leisure and agricultural self-sufficiency, with many people cultivating their own food in the surrounding gardens. Today, dachas further exemplify the Russian connection to nature and the collective memory of simpler, pastoral lifestyles, remaining as popular retreats for many urban residents.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,100, 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.