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

The listing notes, “An extraordinary chef’s kitchen opens to the family room, breakfast room, and outdoor dining area with pizza oven and barbecue.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

The outdoor area at Yarm Wellness, on the corner of West Street and High Church Wynd, will officially open to the public at 13:30 BST on Saturday.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

“I think we’re moving to a realization,” Arant said, sipping tea at an outdoor table in La Jolla, as clouds rolled in from the Pacific.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

The new outdoor area, developed on adjacent arches secured from Network Rail, will expand provision to include a Wellness Shed project, a sensory garden with raised beds and an outdoor yoga and mindfulness space.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

They agreed, but only to and from The Courtyard, the fancy outdoor shopping center, during the day and with advance permission.

From "Keep It Together, Keiko Carter" by Debbi Michiko Florence

Related Words

• rustic