Definition

Noun: 1. A long, open, level area, often paved or grassy, designed for walking, typically located beside a seashore or waterfront. It is a public promenade. 2. (Historical/Military) An open, clear space between a fortress and a town, or within a fortified area.

Usage

The word "esplanade" is used to describe a specific type of public walkway. It emphasizes length, openness, and a connection to a scenic view, most commonly the sea.

Examples

• The tourists strolled along the esplanade, enjoying the sunset over the ocean.
• Many coastal cities have a popular esplanade lined with palm trees and benches.
• The old fort's esplanade is now used as a public park.

Advanced Usage

• "The Esplanade": Often used as a proper noun, the capitalized name for a specific promenade in a city (e.g., The Esplanade in Singapore).
• Can be used metaphorically to describe any broad, open walkway, though the coastal connotation is strongest.

Variants and Related Words

• Promenade (n): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "esplanade," though "promenade" can be more general and is not exclusively coastal.
• Boardwalk (n): A wooden walkway, often along a beach; a specific type of esplanade.
• Waterfront (n): A more general term for land or an area along a body of water, which may include an esplanade.

Synonyms

• Promenade
• Walkway
• Parade (in some British contexts, e.g., "marine parade")
• Boulevard (especially one along water)

Antonyms

• Alley
• Path (implies a narrower, often enclosed way)
• Trail (usually unpaved and natural)

Related Idioms/Phrases

• To take the air on the esplanade: A somewhat formal or old-fashioned phrase meaning to go for a walk on the esplanade.

Noun

1. a long stretch of open level ground (paved or grassy) for walking beside the seashore