English Reference
Noun

condominium

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˌkɑndəˈmɪniəm/ UK /kˌɒndəmˈɪniəm/ con·do·mini·um UK spelling condominiums

n.a building or complex where people own their individual apartments instead of renting them. You share ownership of common areas like the hallways, gym, or pool with the other owners.

n.a building or complex containing a number of individually owned apartments or houses. Ownership typically includes a shared interest in common areas and facilities managed by an association.


SIMPLE

She bought a small condominium near the beach.

CONTEXTUAL

The condominium association voted to increase the monthly fees to pay for a new roof and better security.

COMPLEX

While renting offers flexibility, purchasing a condominium allows residents to build equity while avoiding the maintenance responsibilities typically associated with owning a detached single-family home.

Usage

Often shortened to 'condo' in informal speech and writing.

Condominiums are one of the few paths to entry-level homeownership.

The Conversation· 14 Aug 2026

From Latin condominium.

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

This entry
Origin Latin condominium
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated