national park

American  

noun

1. an area of scenic beauty, historical importance, or the like, owned and maintained by a national government for the use of the people.

---

National Park ¹ British  

noun

1. a mountainous volcanic region in New Zealand, in the central North Island: ski resort

---

national park ² British  

noun

1. an area of countryside for public use designated by a national government as being of notable scenic, environmental, or historical importance

---

Etymology

Origin of national park

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Compare meaning

How does national-park compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• national monument vs. national park

Example Sentences

Deeside water is produced in Scotland from natural springs in the Cairngorms national park.

From BBC

In that capacity, she helped plan the the national park where she would eventually work.

From Los Angeles Times

The Stelvio national park is located in the Fraele valley by Italy's border with Switzerland, near where the Winter Olympics will take place next year.

From BBC

His ideal trip would be cushier than those national park tours and combine active outdoor excursions with relaxed cabin time.

From The Wall Street Journal

Visitor numbers at Joshua Tree have been among the fastest-growing for any national park.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• preserve
• reservation
• reserve