porch
n.-
1 covered entrance (n.) B1 Intermediatea covered area at the entrance of a building, often with a roof and space for chairs.
a covered entrance to a building, typically projecting from the main wall with its own roof; often serves as a transitional outdoor living space.
ExampleWe sat on the front porch and watched the rain fall on the garden.
ExampleThe traditional farmhouse featured a wrap-around porch where the family gathered during the humid summer evenings to enjoy the breeze.
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2 covered walk (n.) C1 Advanced Formala long, covered path with columns, often found in old buildings.
a portico or covered walk, often supported by columns at regular intervals.
ExampleThe old university buildings were connected by a beautiful stone porch.
ExampleThe cathedral's northern porch is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, providing a sheltered transition for the clergy entering the transept.
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3 Stoic philosophy (n.) C2 Proficiency Academic Literary Religionthe Stoic school of philosophy.
the Stoic school of philosophy, named after the painted porch in Athens where its founder taught.
ExampleHe spent years studying the teachings of the Porch.
ExampleThe ethical rigour of the Porch influenced many Roman statesmen who sought a philosophical framework for public service.
UsageAlways used with the definite article 'the' and usually capitalized.
From Middle English porche, from Old French, from Latin porticus (“portico”). Doublet of portego, portico, and porticus.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated June 20, 2026