noun
esplanade
ES-pluh-nahd/ˈesplənɑːd/
A broad, level walkway, especially beside water.
The esplanade stretches beside the water, offering a broad, level walkway.
Etymology
The Latin pieces underlie a verb meaning “make level.” The resulting noun named a large open area, especially before fortifications, before acquiring the walkway sense used today.
In context
I was rowed across to the mysterious residence in question. On reaching it we drew up at some steps leading to a broad stone esplanade, which, I could see, encircled the entire place.
More examples
- Benches lined the broad esplanade.
- The esplanade filled with visitors at sunset.
- A row of palms separated the esplanade from the road.
Forms
esplanade · esplanades
Similar words
- promenade
- A promenade is a place for strolling; an esplanade is specifically a broad, level open area or walkway.
- boardwalk
- A boardwalk is made of boards; an esplanade may have any paved or prepared surface.