What does "rooftop" mean?

1. (the top surface of a building) the outside area on top of a building. 2. (roofing material) the material that covers the top of a house.

How do you use "rooftop"?

Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'rooftop bar' or 'rooftop garden'. Usually refers to the physical substance rather than the space.

rooftop

US //ˈɹufˌtɑp// UK //ɹˈuːftɒp// rooftop

1 the top surface of a building (n.)
A2 Elementary

the outside area on top of a building.

the external upper surface of a building, often used to describe a flat area accessible to people.

Example

We went up to the rooftop to watch the fireworks over the city.

Example

The luxury hotel features a rooftop terrace where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the skyline while dining.

Usage

Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'rooftop bar' or 'rooftop garden'.
- roof
- summit
- basement
- ground floor
2 roofing material (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Technical

the material that covers the top of a house.

the top layer or material composition of a roof structure.

Example

The heavy rain damaged the rooftop, and now the ceiling is leaking.

Example

The architect specified a sustainable rooftop material designed to reflect solar heat and reduce the building's cooling costs.

Usage

Usually refers to the physical substance rather than the space.

Teacher's tip

This sense is less common in daily conversation and is mostly used in construction or architecture.
- roofing
- shingles

Idioms1 entry

01
snow on the rooftop
Gray or white hair on one's head, especially as an indication of aging.