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

Outdoor watch parties around Madison Square Garden were initially banned during the NBA playoffs after multiple arrests during raucous celebrations, but will take place for the rest of the finals.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

The pupil at Libanus Primary in Blackwood, Caerphilly, was at the Dolygaer Outdoor Centre in Merthyr Tydfil on Wednesday evening when the incident happened.

From BBC • May 19, 2026

It helps put on trade shows and conferences around the country, including the outdoor sports show Outdoor Retailer.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

Aside from headlining the main stage, a sunset set at the Outdoor Theatre is one of the most coveted time slots at the festival.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

"Yes, that’s right. So you've met him, then—’’ "I hate to tell you this, mister, but your friend is dead. Froze to death up on the tundra. Just read about it in Outdoor magazine.”

From "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer

Related Words

• rustic