promenade
prom-uh-NAHD
/ˌprɒməˈnɑːd/
A paved public walk, typically one along a waterfront or in a large shopping area, designed for leisurely walking.
Suggests walking for pleasure or to be seen, rather than just to get from A to B.
The story behind the word. From the French 'promener', meaning 'to take for a walk'. It originally referred to driving cattle forth to pasture.
Word relationships
- walkway: Walkway is purely functional; promenade implies leisure and social display.
Commonly confused with
- concourse: A concourse is usually indoors and functional; a promenade is often outdoors and for leisure.
Collocations
- beachfront promenade
- shopping promenade
- evening promenade
Example sentences
- "The seaside promenade was lined with luxury boutiques and outdoor cafes." Describing a luxury shopping district.
Memory hook
A 'Promenade' is like a 'Prom'—you dress up and walk around to be seen. A walk with a view.
When not to use
Do not use for a busy, narrow sidewalk or a highway.
Fun facts
- The word 'Prom' (the high school dance) is actually short for 'promenade', referring to the formal grand march at the start of the event.
Explore more words
walkable, pedestrianized, parade, leisurely, walkability, procession
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