AREAWAY Meaning and
Definition
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An "areaway" is a noun that refers to an architectural feature typically found in urban environments, specifically underneath sidewalks or pavements. Also known as a "basement vault" or a "cellar entrance," an areaway is a sunken or recessed space that provides access to a building's basement level while being protected by a cover or grating at ground level.
Primarily created for practical reasons, areaways allow for the easy delivery of goods, storage, or the movement of occupants and freight between the sidewalk and the basement. They often serve as an extension of the building's storage space or as an additional entrance/exit point.
Areaways can be constructed from various materials including concrete, metal, or stone, and they usually incorporate a set of stairs leading down to the basement level. These stairs are typically accompanied by handrails to ensure safety during use. The cover or grating at street level is designed to provide both security and ventilation for the basement area while preventing accidental falls or unauthorized access.
In addition to their functional purpose, areaways can also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a building or streetscape. Often adorned with decorative ironwork or architectural details, they can enhance the overall visual experience of a city's architecture.
Overall, an areaway is a practical and functional architectural element that facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services between a building's basement and the street level, while also offering potential design and decorative features to enhance the urban environment.
Common Misspellings for AREAWAY
Etymology of AREAWAY
The word "areaway" originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It is formed by combining the prefix "area", meaning a space or region, with the noun "way", indicating a path or route. The term was originally used to describe a sunken or below-ground space, often near a building, used for storage or access. It became commonly used to refer to the space below a sidewalk or basement level that provides access to a building's basement or cellar.
Similar spelling words for AREAWAY
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