Terraced: meaning, definitions and examples

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terraced

 

[ ˈter.əst ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

landscape feature

Terraced refers to a type of land that has been modified into a series of step-like levels that resemble a staircase. This design is commonly used in agriculture, especially in hilly or mountainous areas, to maximize arable land and manage water drainage. Such terraces help to reduce soil erosion and can create a more suitable environment for growing crops. In addition to agricultural use, the term can also describe terraces used in architecture or housing, where buildings have multiple levels that extend outward from the structure's side.

Synonyms

gradated, layered, stepped

Examples of usage

  • The terraced fields in the Andes are famous for their beauty.
  • We built a lovely terraced garden in our backyard.
  • The village utilizes terraced farming to grow rice.

Translations

Translations of the word "terraced" in other languages:

🇵🇹 em terraços

🇮🇳 तराशा हुआ

🇩🇪 terrassiert

🇮🇩 bertingkat

🇺🇦 терасований

🇵🇱 tarasowy

🇯🇵 テラス状の

🇫🇷 terrassé

🇪🇸 terrazado

🇹🇷 teraslı

🇰🇷 테라스형의

🇸🇦 مستوي

🇨🇿 terasovitý

🇸🇰 terasovitý

🇨🇳 阶梯式的

🇸🇮 terasast

🇮🇸 verönd

🇰🇿 терасалы

🇬🇪 ტერასული

🇦🇿 teraslı

🇲🇽 terrazado

Etymology

The term 'terraced' originates from the Middle French word 'terrasse', meaning 'a bank, platform, or terrace', which itself derives from the Latin word 'terracea', meaning 'a level piece of ground, terrace', from 'terra', meaning 'land' or 'earth'. The concept of terrace farming has ancient roots, with evidence of terraced agriculture found in cultures around the world, from the rice terraces of the Philippines to the mountainous regions of Peru. Over time, the architectural use of terraces also grew, leading to their incorporation into building designs, where they provide outdoor space and aesthetic appeal. By the late 19th century, the notion of terraced housing emerged, especially in urban areas, where rows of similar houses share common walls, creating efficient use of space.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,708, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.