Plaza: meaning, definitions and examples

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plaza

 

[หˆplษ‘หzษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

public space

A plaza is a public square or open space in a city or town, often surrounded by buildings and used for community gatherings, events, or recreation.

Synonyms

courtyard, piazza, square.

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Word Description / Examples
plaza

A large open area in a city, commonly surrounded by buildings, often with shops or cafes. Typically found in Spanish-speaking countries or contexts with Spanish influence.

  • The new shopping plaza will open next month.
  • We met at the plaza for some coffee.
square

A large open area in a city or town, often found at the intersection of streets. It can be used for public gatherings, markets, or events.

  • The concert took place in the town square.
  • They set up a Christmas tree in the main square.
piazza

An open public square, especially in Italy. It is typically found in Italian-speaking contexts and often has a historical or cultural significance.

  • The market is held every Sunday in the main piazza.
  • We spent the afternoon exploring the beautiful piazza.
courtyard

An open area enclosed by the walls of a building, usually found in residential or institutional buildings. It feels more private and is often used in settings like schools or homes.

  • The children played games in the school courtyard.
  • We enjoy having dinner in the courtyard during summer.

Examples of usage

  • The plaza in the center of the city is a popular spot for concerts and festivals.
  • We sat on a bench in the plaza and watched the street performers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'plaza' comes from the Spanish term for 'square' or 'place,' reflecting its communal purpose.
  • In medieval times, plazas often served as marketplaces, where people gathered to buy and sell goods.

Architecture

  • Plazas are typically surrounded by buildings, which can include shops, banks, or restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Famous examples of plazas include the Plaza Mayor in Madrid, known for its historical architecture and bustling social life.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, plazas are the heart of social life, hosting festivals, concerts, and public events.
  • Plazas often reflect local culture, with statues, fountains, or gardens that tell the history of the area.

Urban Planning

  • Urban planners design plazas to encourage community interaction and pedestrian traffic, promoting a sense of belonging.
  • They are often strategically located in city centers to be easily accessible for everyone.

Pop Culture

  • Plazas often feature in movies and literature as settings for romance, conflict, or community gatherings.
  • Many festivals or cultural events are held in plazas, making them a focal point for local traditions and celebrations.

Translations

Translations of the word "plaza" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น praรงa

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคšเฅŒเคฐเคพเคนเคพ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Platz

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ alun-alun

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะฟะปะพั‰ะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ plac

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅบƒๅ ด (ใฒใ‚ใฐ)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท place

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ plaza

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท meydan

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ด‘์žฅ (๊ด‘์žฅ)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุณุงุญุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ nรกmฤ›stรญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ nรกmestie

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅนฟๅœบ (guวŽngchวŽng)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ trg

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ torg

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะฐะปะฐาฃ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒแƒ”แƒ“แƒแƒœแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ meydan

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ plaza

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,726, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.