# porch

/ˈpɔɹtʃ/ (US) · /pˈɔːtʃ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/porch
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. covered entrance

noun · CEFR B1

a covered area at the entrance of a building, often with a roof and space for chairs.

For teachers: a covered entrance to a building, typically projecting from the main wall with its own roof; often serves as a transitional outdoor living space.

- We sat on the front porch and watched the rain fall on the garden.
- The traditional farmhouse featured a wrap-around porch where the family gathered during the humid summer evenings to enjoy the breeze.

### 2. covered walk

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a long, covered path with columns, often found in old buildings.

For teachers: a portico or covered walk, often supported by columns at regular intervals.

- The old university buildings were connected by a beautiful stone porch.
- The cathedral's northern porch is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, providing a sheltered transition for the clergy entering the transept.

### 3. Stoic philosophy

noun · CEFR C2 · Academic · Literary

the Stoic school of philosophy.

For teachers: the Stoic school of philosophy, named after the painted porch in Athens where its founder taught.

- He spent years studying the teachings of the Porch.
- The ethical rigour of the Porch influenced many Roman statesmen who sought a philosophical framework for public service.

Usage: Always used with the definite article 'the' and usually capitalized.

## Examples

- We sat on the front porch and watched the rain.
- The neighbors often gather on their wide wooden porch during summer evenings to drink lemonade and chat.
- Architectural historians note that the deep, wrap-around porch became a staple of American domestic design, providing essential ventilation and social space before the advent of air conditioning.

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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.