Playground Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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playground

[ˈpleɪɡraʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

children

An outdoor area provided for children to play in, especially at a school or public park.

Synonyms

play area, play space, recreation ground.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
playground	This term is commonly used to describe a designated area equipped with structures such as slides, swings, and climbing frames specifically for children's recreation. The kids ran to the playground as soon as we arrived at the park. The school has a beautiful playground with modern equipment.
play area	This can be used to describe a more general space where children can play, not necessarily equipped with playground equipment. It can be indoors or outdoors. The restaurant has a small play area to keep children entertained. We set up a play area in the backyard with some toys and a small sandbox.
recreation ground	This term is more formal and generally refers to a large outdoor area that includes facilities for sports and other recreational activities. It's often used in British English. The local recreation ground has football fields, tennis courts, and a picnic area. On weekends, families gather at the recreation ground for various activities.
play space	This term is broad and somewhat abstract, often referring to any space designed for play, including digital and imaginative play environments. The community center offers a play space that can be adapted for different activities. Her room was transformed into a play space with various educational toys.

Examples of usage

The children were having fun on the playground.
The playground was filled with laughter and joy.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sports

An area designed for athletic activities, sports, or games.

Synonyms

athletic field, sports complex, sports ground.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
playground	A playground is a place designed primarily for young children to play. It often includes slides, swings, and climbing structures and is commonly found in parks and schools. The kids spent the afternoon at the playground, sliding down the slides and swinging on the swings
sports ground	A sports ground generally refers to a large open area where various kinds of sports can be played. It is often used in British English and can be similar to an athletic field but might not be specifically marked for particular sports. The children gathered on the sports ground after school to play cricket
athletic field	An athletic field is typically used for specific sports activities such as soccer, football, or track and field. It usually consists of a large grassy or artificial turf area with lines marking different areas for different sports. The soccer team practices on the athletic field every Monday and Wednesday
sports complex	A sports complex is a larger facility that often includes multiple types of sports fields, courts, and sometimes even gyms and swimming pools. It is designed for both professional and recreational activities. The new sports complex in the city includes facilities for basketball, swimming, tennis, and more

Examples of usage

The basketball court is part of the playground.
Many people gather at the playground to play soccer.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

action

Engage in activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose.

Synonyms

enjoy oneself, have fun, recreate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
playground	A designated outdoor area with equipment for children to play on. The kids spent the afternoon at the playground, climbing on the monkey bars and sliding down the slides
recreate	Engaging in activities for relaxation and enjoyment during free time, usually in a more formal or structured way than just having fun. On weekends, he likes to recreate by going fishing or hiking in the mountains
have fun	Participating in recreational activities that are amusing and entertaining. They always have fun when they go to the beach, building sandcastles and splashing in the water
enjoy oneself	Engaging in activities that bring pleasure and satisfaction. She really enjoyed herself at the party, dancing and laughing with friends

Examples of usage

Children love to play and explore on the playground.
Let's go outside and play in the playground.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The concept of outdoor play areas emerged in the mid-19th century, with the first known playground built in Germany in the 1850s.
In 1887, the first public playground in the United States was established in San Francisco, making play accessible to many children.
The term 'playground' itself was first used in the late 19th century as organized spaces for child play gained popularity.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures view playgrounds as essential for child development, fostering physical skills, social interaction, and imaginative play.
In some countries, the design and safety of playgrounds are strictly regulated to ensure children’s protection and happiness.
Playgrounds often reflect cultural values, with equipment and themes influenced by local traditions, stories, and art.

Psychology

Playgrounds provide a safe space for children to develop social skills, learn to cooperate, and resolve conflicts with peers.
Engaging in physical play (like climbing and swinging) is crucial for developing motor skills and promoting overall fitness.
Psychologists emphasize the importance of unstructured play in fostering creativity and problem-solving abilities in children.

Educational Value

Playgrounds encourage holistic development, combining physical, emotional, and cognitive growth through interactive play.
Structured playtime at playgrounds can enhance children’s critical thinking as they navigate challenges and take risks.
Educators advocate for outdoor play as an integral part of the curriculum, recognizing that learning happens in many forms beyond traditional classrooms.

Design and Innovation

Modern playgrounds are incorporating technology, such as interactive games and musical elements, to engage children in new ways.
Inclusive design encourages playgrounds to be accessible to children of all abilities, promoting diversity and friendship.
Sustainable materials and eco-friendly designs are becoming popular in playground construction, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Origin of 'playground'

The word 'playground' originated in the mid 19th century, combining 'play' with 'ground'. It refers to a designated area for children to play and engage in recreational activities. Playgrounds have evolved over time to include various equipment and spaces for physical and imaginative play, promoting social interaction and physical exercise among children. Today, playgrounds can be found in schools, parks, and communities worldwide, serving as important spaces for childhood development and enjoyment.