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Terrace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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terrace

[หˆterษ™s ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

outdoor

A flat area of stone or grass next to a building, where people can sit and relax outside.

Synonyms

deck, patio, veranda.

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Word Description / Examples
terrace

Typically refers to a flat, outdoor area that is elevated and often attached to a building. It's often used in urban settings or for homes with available rooftop spaces.

  • They enjoyed an evening drink on the terrace overlooking the city
  • The restaurant has a large terrace where guests can dine outside
patio

An outdoor space, typically paved, adjacent to a house and used for dining or recreation. Often features seating and sometimes a grill or fire pit. Can be made from materials such as concrete, stone, or tiles.

  • They had lunch on the patio under the shade of the umbrella
  • The backyard patio was perfect for hosting an evening gathering
veranda

A roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor. Often wrapping around multiple sides of the building and providing a covered, sheltered area.

  • The old house had a charming veranda with rocking chairs
  • She sat on the veranda, watching the rain fall
deck

An unroofed platform typically extending from the rear of a house. Often made of wood, it is popular in suburban areas and requires maintenance such as staining or sealing.

  • We hosted a summer barbecue on our deck
  • He spent the afternoon fixing a loose board on the deck

Examples of usage

  • People enjoy having breakfast on the terrace overlooking the garden.
  • We sat on the terrace, sipping our drinks and watching the sunset.
Context #2 | Noun

architecture

A raised, flat area that is connected to a building, often surrounded by a low wall or balustrade.

Synonyms

balcony, platform, porch.

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Word Description / Examples
terrace

An open, flat area usually attached to a building, often elevated and used for leisure activities such as dining or gardening.

  • We enjoyed our evening tea on the terrace while watching the sunset
balcony

A small elevated platform projecting from the wall of a building, typically with a railing and accessed from an upper floor, used for viewing or relaxing.

  • She stepped out onto the balcony to get a breath of fresh air
platform

A raised, flat structure that can serve various purposes such as transportation (train station) or a stage for performances or speeches.

  • The mayor gave his speech from the platform in the town square
porch

An outdoor area, usually covered and attached to the front or back of a house, where people can sit and relax.

  • They spent the summer evenings chatting on the front porch

Examples of usage

  • The restaurant has a beautiful terrace with a view of the city skyline.
  • They added a terrace to the back of the house for outdoor dining.
Context #3 | Verb

gardening

To form or build (a raised, flat area) as a terrace.

Synonyms

flatten, level, slope.

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Word Description / Examples
terrace

Useful when referring to a series of stepped levels, often in agriculture or gardening, or to a row of houses with uniformity.

  • The farmers built a series of terraces to cultivate their crops on the hillside.
  • They live in a charming terrace house in the city.
level

Appropriate for indicating that something is even or at the same height, often used in construction or describing fairness.

  • The workers made sure to level the concrete floor perfectly.
  • Both teams started at level positions in the competition.
flatten

Used to describe the act of making something flat or smooth, often indicating the removal of irregularities or bumps.

  • We need to flatten the ground before we can lay the foundation for the new house.
  • He used a roller to flatten the dough.
slope

Refers to an inclined surface or the degree of its inclination, commonly used in geography, construction, and sports.

  • The ski resort is known for its challenging slopes.
  • The engineers measured the slope of the hill before beginning construction.

Examples of usage

  • They terraced the hillside to create more space for planting crops.
  • The garden was terraced to prevent erosion.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Terraces have been utilized in architecture from ancient civilizations to modern urban homes, creating connectivity with the outdoors.
  • The famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon featured terraces, showcasing how they can integrate nature into architecture.
  • In urban design, terraces help maximize the use of limited space, providing outdoor areas in crowded cities.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures use terraces for agricultural purposes, especially in mountainous areas where flat land is scarce.
  • In Mediterranean culture, terraces are often adorned with plants and seating areas, serving as social spaces.
  • In some regions, rooftop terraces have become trendy spots for dining and socializing, merging city living with leisure.

Ecology

  • Terraced farming helps prevent soil erosion and allows for efficient water management in hilly terrains.
  • Creating terraces can enhance biodiversity by providing various microhabitats for plants and animals.
  • The design of terraces can be crucial in urban areas for improving air quality and providing green spaces.

Travel and Tourism

  • Terraces in places like Santorini, Greece, are famous for their stunning views and are a popular tourist attraction.
  • Many hotels and resorts feature terraces as key amenities for guests to relax and enjoy scenic landscapes.
  • Cultural events, such as concerts and festivals, are often held on terraces, emphasizing their role as social gathering spots.

Origin of 'terrace'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'terrace' comes from the Latin 'terra', meaning 'earth' or 'land', indicating a flat, raised area.
  • In Old French, it evolved into 'terrace', which referred to a raised platform.
  • The term has been used for centuries to describe outdoor spaces in architecture.

The word 'terrace' originated from the Latin word 'terra', meaning 'earth' or 'ground'. In ancient Rome, terraces were used for agriculture on hilly terrain. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to raised, flat areas next to buildings. Terraces have become popular features in modern architecture and landscaping, providing outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,168 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.