# courtyard

/ˈkɔɹtˌjɑɹd/ (US) · /kˈɔːtjɑːd/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/courtyard
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

an open area that is surrounded by walls or buildings. It is like a private outdoor room that has no roof.

For teachers: an unroofed area that is completely or partially enclosed by walls or buildings. Often serves as a central focal point in residential or institutional architecture.

## Examples

- The hotel guests enjoy drinking coffee in the sunny courtyard.
- The office building features a central courtyard where employees can eat lunch away from the street noise.
- Traditional Mediterranean villas are often designed around a central courtyard to facilitate natural ventilation and provide a secluded outdoor space for the family.

## Usage notes

- Commonly paired with 'central', 'inner', or 'private'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.