outdoor

American  

[out-dawr, -dohr] / ˈaʊtˌdɔr, -ˌdoʊr /

adjective

1. Also characteristic of, located, occurring, or belonging outdoors.

   an outdoor barbecue; outdoor sports.

2. outdoorsy.

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outdoor British  

/ ˈaʊtˈdɔː /

adjective

1. Also: out-of-door.  (prenominal) taking place, existing, or intended for use in the open air

   outdoor games

   outdoor clothes

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Etymology

Origin of outdoor

First recorded in 1740–50; out- + door

Explanation

Things that are outdoor belong outside. Your slippers aren't outdoor shoes, but your snow boots are definitely outdoor shoes. A picnic is an outdoor meal, and a sculpture garden is often an outdoor area of a museum. Bird watching, surfing, and snowball fights are all outdoor activities, and if you're an outdoor enthusiast you probably enjoy them more than watching TV or baking cookies. The adjective outdoor was first used in the 1740s, with the related adverb outdoors following in the 1800s.

Example Sentences

Other highlights of the grounds include a 80-foot lap pool, designed for those “who truly appreciate swimming as a daily ritual,” as well as plenty of space for outdoor dining and relaxation areas.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

The spirit of outdoor camping is in Coachella’s DNA.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Co-lead researcher Dr Rebecca Collins said: "We have a general understanding that time spent in these outdoor spaces is good for us, but we don't know exactly what components of nature are beneficial."

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Many shops were closed and outdoor cafes were packed in upscale neighbourhoods, as Tehran's legendary traffic jams vanished on Wednesday.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

It’s an hour before sunset when we sit around the outdoor table.

From "I Can Make This Promise" by Christine Day

Related Words

• rustic