amenity
uh-MEN-i-tee
/əˈmiːnɪti/
A desirable or useful feature or facility of a building or place.
A desirable or useful feature of a building or place that increases comfort or convenience. It is usually something extra, not a basic necessity.
The story behind the word. From Latin amoenitas, meaning 'pleasantness' or 'delightfulness', derived from amoenus (pleasant).
Word relationships
- facility: A facility is a physical structure built for a specific purpose (like a gym), while an amenity is any feature that adds comfort or pleasure (like a nice view or free chocolate).
- convenience: A convenience makes a task easier, whereas an amenity specifically enhances the pleasantness of an experience.
- detraction: A detraction reduces the value or pleasantness of a place, whereas an amenity enhances it.
Commonly confused with
- necessity: A necessity is something you must have to survive or function, while an amenity is an extra comfort.
Word family
- amenities (noun): plural form, often used to refer to the collective features of a property
Collocations
- modern amenities
- basic amenities
- hotel amenities
Example sentences
- "The hotel offers a wide range of amenities, including a heated pool and a fitness center." Hotel features.
Memory hook
Amenity sounds like 'a-men-ity'—something so nice you say 'Amen!' when you see it. Amenity brings pleasantry.
When not to use
Do not use for absolute survival necessities like clean water or air, unless discussing them in a luxury real estate context.
Fun facts
- The Latin root amoenus was often used by Roman writers to describe beautiful, peaceful landscapes, which is why 'amenity' originally meant 'pleasantness of a place'.
Related words
Explore more words
Amenities, complimentary, walkable, ancillary, perks, ornamental
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