promenade
prom-uh-NAHD
/ˌprɒmənɑːd/
A public paved path for walking (noun); to take a leisurely walk in public for social enjoyment (verb).
Emphasizes unhurried walking for leisure, socializing, and visual display.
The story behind the word. From French 'promener' (to lead out for a walk), tracing to Latin 'pro-' (forward) + 'minare' (to drive animals). In 18th-century Europe, high society turned promenading into a high-status ritual of walking publicly to see and be seen.
Word relationships
- stroll: Stroll is a general term for leisurely walking; promenade carries an implication of social visibility.
- esplanade: Esplanade refers to the flat waterfront walkway structure itself.
- sprint: To run at full speed.
Commonly confused with
- prominent: Prominent means famous or noticeable; promenade is a leisure walkway or walk.
Word family
- promenading (verb): Taking a leisurely public walk.
- promenader (noun): A person taking a promenade.
Collocations
- seaside promenade
- evening promenade
- promenade along the avenue
Example sentences
- "In the cool evening air, couples would promenade slowly down the wide boulevard." Travel literature
Memory hook
PROMENADE: PROfessionals walk in a parade of fashion. Promenade = Leisurely social walk or walkway.
When not to use
Do not use for rushing to catch a subway train or sprinting.
Fun facts
- London's famous Proms concerts derive their name from 'promenade concerts', where audience members originally stood and walked around freely.
Related words
Explore more words
walkable, pedestrianized, parade, leisurely, walkability, procession
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