park
7 synonyms and 3 antonyms for park, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An area of land, often in or near a town, set aside for recreation or preserved in a natural state.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use park
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French parc, "livestock pen," from Frankish *parrik ("enclosure"). The word originally meant an enclosed piece of land for game or livestock before it broadened to today's recreational and functional senses.
Full origin of park →Frequently asked questions
What does “park” mean?
The word “park” means an area of land, often in or near a town, set aside for recreation or preserved in a natural state. In plain terms, an open piece of land for recreation, or the act of stopping and leaving a vehicle somewhere.
How do you pronounce “park”?
“Park” is pronounced pahk ([pʰɑɹk] in IPA).
How do you use “park” in a sentence?
Here is “park” used in a sentence: “The kids played frisbee in the park after school.”
What is another word for “park”?
Words with a similar meaning to “park” include Hog.
What is the opposite of “park”?
The opposite of “park” — its antonyms — are building, skyscraper and street.
What part of speech is “park”?
Depending on how it is used, “park” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “park” come from?
The word “park” comes from Old French. From Old French parc, "livestock pen," from Frankish *parrik ("enclosure"). The word originally meant an enclosed piece of land for game or livestock before it broadened to today's recreational and functional senses.
Is “park” a common word?
“Park” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between a park and a garden?
A park is a large, open public space set aside for recreation, often with lawns, trees, paths, and room for activities. A garden is usually smaller and more cultivated, focused on growing flowers, plants, or vegetables. Parks are mainly for public leisure; gardens are tended, planted spaces, whether public or private.
What are the different types of parks?
Parks come in many forms. Public or municipal parks offer green space within towns; national parks protect large natural landscapes; theme parks and amusement parks provide rides and attractions; and there are skate parks, dog parks, and business or science parks too. The word covers both recreational and preserved land.
Why are parks important?
Parks give people space to relax, exercise, and meet outdoors, which benefits both physical and mental health. They also support wildlife, cool cities, absorb rainwater, and clean the air. As free, shared spaces, they bring communities together and offer contact with nature to those who might not otherwise reach it.
What is an example of a park?
Famous examples include Central Park in New York and Hyde Park in London — large urban parks used for walking, sports, and events. National parks such as Yellowstone protect wild landscapes. On a smaller scale, a local park might simply have grass, benches, trees, and a children's playground.