split-level

American  

[split-lev-uhl] / ˈsplɪtˈlɛv əl /

adjective

1. noting a house having a room or rooms that are somewhat above or below adjacent rooms, with the floor levels usually differing by approximately half a story.

---

noun

1. a split-level house.

split-level British  

adjective

1. (of a house, room, etc) having the floor level of one part about half a storey above or below the floor level of an adjoining part

---

Etymology

Origin of split-level

First recorded in 1945–50

Compare meaning

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

• split-level vs. bi-level

Example Sentences

“Located in the desirable Breakwater Shores neighborhood, this split-level residence overlooking the pond offers coastal living with peaceful water views and glimpses of the ocean beyond,” the description continues.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

The site, forever linked to the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, is built into a hillside with a split-level design.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

The first permit approved was for repairs to a fire-damaged primary bedroom, bathroom and garage of a split-level home near Rustic Canyon, according to city records and Paul Lobana, the structural engineer for the project.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2025

For example, a new three-bedroom split-level house on Beacon Hill sold for $16,500 in 1961.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 23, 2024

We lived in a split-level house with the den, my daddy's home office, and Mrs. Baylor’s room and bath on the upper level.

From "It All Comes Down to This" by Karen English