Indoors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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indoors

[ˌɪnˈdɔːrz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

inside

In or into a building.

Synonyms

inside, internally, within.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indoors

Use when talking about activities or locations that are within a building or covered space.

  • Let's play indoors because it's raining outside.
  • The event will be held indoors.
inside

Use when referring to the inner part of something or being within a certain boundary.

  • The cat is inside the house.
  • Look inside the box for the keys.
within

Use when referring to something inside the limits, range, or boundary of a place, time, or group.

  • You should stay within the speed limit.
  • The answer is within the scope of this document.
internally

Use when referring to something happening within an organization, body, or system.

  • The company decided to handle the issue internally.
  • You need to look internally to find the solution.

Examples of usage

  • She preferred to stay indoors on rainy days.
  • The cat is scared of going outdoors, so it prefers to stay indoors.
Context #2 | Noun

inside

The portion of space within a building.

Synonyms

inner part, inside, interior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indoors

Best suited for describing being or activities happening within a building or enclosure, especially when contrasting with being outside.

  • We decided to stay indoors as it was raining heavily
  • She prefers indoor sports like badminton and table tennis
interior

Commonly used for formal or technical descriptions of the inside part of structures such as buildings, vehicles, or regions within a country. It can also describe design and decoration inside a space.

  • The interior of the mansion was exquisitely decorated
  • The interior of the car is very spacious
inside

Appropriate for referring to the interior space of something, whether physical or abstract. It can also denote being within a more generalized indoor space.

  • The cat always hides inside the closet
  • She feels safe inside her home
inner part

Used to describe the middle or central part of something, often a physical object or material.

  • The inner part of the cake was still uncooked
  • He felt a strange sensation in the inner part of his chest

Examples of usage

  • The indoors of the house are beautifully decorated.
  • I enjoy spending time in the indoors during winter.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Being indoors can promote relaxation, as people often associate indoor spaces with comfort and safety.
  • Studies suggest that environments with more natural light indoors can enhance mood and productivity.

Architecture

  • Indoor spaces have various designs to maximize comfort, including open layouts and natural lighting.
  • Modern architecture often incorporates biophilic design, connecting indoor spaces with nature through large windows and plants.

Health and Safety

  • Staying indoors can protect against extreme weather conditions, such as storms or heatwaves, promoting safety.
  • Indoor air quality is crucial for health, with ventilated spaces reducing the risk of airborne diseases.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'indoors' is often referenced in songs about comfort and nostalgia, highlighting how home spaces evoke emotional connections.
  • Popular indoor activities like gaming, reading, and cooking have surged in relevance in recent years, shaping entertainment trends.

Origin of 'indoors'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'indoors' combines the prefix 'in-' meaning 'inside' and 'doors,' suggesting it relates to entering a building.
  • Dating back to the late 14th century, the term evolved from the Old English phrase 'in dor,' meaning 'in the door'.

The word 'indoors' originated from the combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'into' or 'within' and the word 'doors'. It has been used in English since the mid-18th century to refer to the interior of a building or the act of being inside. The concept of indoors has evolved over time with the development of architecture and living spaces, reflecting the importance of shelter and comfort in human life.


See also: door, doorkeeper, doorman, doormat, doorway, indoor, outdoor, outdoors.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,570, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.