Playhouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
playhouse
[หpleษชหhaสs ]
Definitions
children's entertainment
A playhouse is a small house or other building that children play in, especially one that is not real and is used as a toy.
Synonyms
dollhouse, toy house.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| playhouse |
Commonly used to refer to a small structure where children can play, often resembling a miniature house. It can also be used to describe a children's theater.
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| dollhouse |
Specifically refers to a miniature house intended for dolls. It is often used in the context of children's toys or hobbyist activities.
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| toy house |
A broad term that refers to any small structure toy, which could include both playhouses and dollhouses. It's often used more generically.
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Examples of usage
- The kids spent hours playing in the playhouse in the backyard.
- My daughter's favorite toy is her playhouse.
theater
A playhouse is a theater or other building where plays are performed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| playhouse |
Also refers to a small, typically outdoor structure for children to play in, resembling a miniature house.
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| theater |
Commonly used in American English to refer to a place where movies are shown or live performances are held.
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| theatre |
Predominantly used in British English, this term also refers to a place where movies or live performances are shown, but it can additionally carry a more classical or traditional connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The local playhouse is known for its excellent productions.
- We went to see a musical at the playhouse downtown.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The concept of playhouses dates back to the 17th century in Europe, where children used small structures to play acted scenes.
- In ancient Rome, children had makeshift playhouses in their gardens, showing how the desire for imaginative play spans cultures and time.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, playhouses serve as a vital space for children to express creativity, acting as safe zones for exploration.
- The popularity of playhouses in todayโs society emphasizes the importance of play in child development.
Education
- Educational experts emphasize that playhouses aid in developing social skills, as children interact and role-play various scenarios.
- Using playhouses in classrooms can enhance learning by incorporating drama and imagination into lessons.
Architecture
- Modern playhouses often feature designs that mimic real homes, complete with furniture and decorations, to enhance the play experience.
- Some playhouses are creatively designed to double as outdoor garden sheds, mixing fun with utility.
Art and Entertainment
- Puppetry and small-scale theater performances often utilize miniature playhouses as props for storytelling.
- The tradition of building sets in children's theater draws from the nostalgia of playhouses, fostering both theater skills and imaginative play.
Origin of 'playhouse'
The term 'playhouse' originated in the late Middle English period, combining 'play' and 'house'. Initially, it referred to a building used for theatrical performances. Over time, the term also came to be associated with children's toy houses where imaginative play takes place. Today, 'playhouse' continues to evoke both theatrical settings and childhood fun.
See also: downplay, interplay, misplay, outplay, outplayed, overplay, play, playback, playboy, player, players, playful, playfully, playfulness, playground, playing, playlist, playoff, plays, plaything, playtime, playwright, playwrights, teleplay.