outdoor

American  

[out-dawr, -dohr] / ˈaʊtˌdɔr, -ˌdoʊr /

adjective

1. Also characteristic of, located, occurring, or belonging outdoors.

   an outdoor barbecue; outdoor sports.

2. outdoorsy.

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outdoor British  

/ ˈaʊtˈdɔː /

adjective

1. Also: out-of-door.  (prenominal) taking place, existing, or intended for use in the open air

   outdoor games

   outdoor clothes

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Etymology

Origin of outdoor

First recorded in 1740–50; out- + door

Explanation

Things that are outdoor belong outside. Your slippers aren't outdoor shoes, but your snow boots are definitely outdoor shoes. A picnic is an outdoor meal, and a sculpture garden is often an outdoor area of a museum. Bird watching, surfing, and snowball fights are all outdoor activities, and if you're an outdoor enthusiast you probably enjoy them more than watching TV or baking cookies. The adjective outdoor was first used in the 1740s, with the related adverb outdoors following in the 1800s.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

outdoor

Amer Sports, the parent company of outdoor sports brands including Salomon and Arc’teryx, saw Greater China sales grow about 45% year-over-year in its latest quarter.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026

Shakespeare in the park is the dominant form of outdoor theater, but don’t miss out on seeing Broadway musicals in Rancho Mirage, the ancients at Getty Villa or tableaux come to life in Laguna Beach.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2026

They have also advised people to use air-conditioners, drink enough water and consume salt, as well as avoid prolonged outdoor activities.

From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026

The lavish estate features a resort-style swimming pool, private dock, guesthouse, basketball court, spa, expansive outdoor entertaining areas, and panoramic views of the Miami skyline.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 20, 2026

Penelope had spent the last three days reading up on outdoor survival skills.

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• rustic