park

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.

“Park” is pronounced pahk ([pʰɑɹk] in IPA).

Here is “park” used in a sentence: “The kids played frisbee in the park after school.”

Words with a similar meaning to “park” include Hog.

The opposite of “park” — its antonyms — are building, skyscraper and street.

Depending on how it is used, “park” can be a noun and a verb.

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.

“Park” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

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.

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.

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.

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.