What does "backyard" mean?

1. (garden behind a house) a private area of land behind a house, often with grass, trees, or a patio. 2. (local area) the area near where you live or work.

How do you use "backyard"?

Commonly used in North America and Australia; British speakers usually say 'back garden'. Often used in the phrase 'not in my backyard' (NIMBY) to describe local opposition to new projects.

backyard

US //ˈbækˌjɑɹd// UK //bˈækjɑːd// back·yard

1 garden behind a house (n.)
A2 Elementary American English

a private area of land behind a house, often with grass, trees, or a patio.

the enclosed or open area at the rear of a residential property, typically used for recreation or gardening.

Example

The children are playing with the dog in the backyard while we cook dinner.

Example

The property features a spacious backyard with a stone patio, perfect for hosting large family gatherings during the summer months.

Usage

Commonly used in North America and Australia; British speakers usually say 'back garden'.
- garden
- yard
- front yard
2 local area (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

the area near where you live or work.

the immediate neighbourhood or local vicinity where a person or community resides.

Example

I don't want a noisy factory being built right in my backyard.

Example

Residents often support renewable energy in theory but object when the infrastructure is proposed for their own backyard.

Usage

Often used in the phrase 'not in my backyard' (NIMBY) to describe local opposition to new projects.

Teacher's tip

This sense is frequently used in political or social discussions regarding local development.

Origin

From back + yard.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026