The word "rowhouse" is spelled R-O-W-H-O-U-S-E. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈroʊˌhaʊs/. This term refers to a type of architecture where a sequence of attached houses are built in a row, sharing at least one wall with each other. The word is commonly used in North America and reflects a regional pronunciation of "row." Variations include "row house", "rowhome" or "townhouse". No matter the spelling, rowhouses have become popular due to their efficient use of space and affordability, particularly in urban areas.
A rowhouse, also known as a row home or townhouse, is a type of residential building designed to share common walls with adjacent houses on both sides, forming a continuous row. The term "rowhouse" originated in the United States and is frequently used in American English, while "row home" is commonly used in British English.
Typically, rowhouses are narrow, multi-story structures that share the same architectural design along the row. They are typically found in urban areas where space is limited, and the need for efficient land use is essential. Rowhouses are usually constructed in a linear fashion, with each unit having its own separate entrance and often a small front yard or stoop.
These types of homes have a long history and are often associated with city living. They can be found in many major cities around the world, from New York City to London, Paris, and beyond. Rowhouses offer a sense of community due to their close proximity to one another and shared design elements. They also tend to be more affordable compared to detached single-family homes, making them popular among urban dwellers.
In recent years, rowhouses have experienced a resurgence in popularity. Their blend of historic charm and urban convenience has attracted many homebuyers and developers. Additionally, the compact nature of rowhouses makes them a sustainable housing option, as they can help conserve land and resources.
Overall, rowhouses provide a unique and practical form of urban housing characterized by shared walls, a common architectural style, and a sense of community.
The word "rowhouse" originated from the combination of two distinct elements: "row" and "house".
The term "row" can be traced back to the Old English word "rāw", which meant "a line or series of things". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*raiwo", meaning "line" or "row". In Latin, the word "rēdō" had a comparable meaning of "arrange in a row" or "put in order".
The word "house" has its roots in the Old English word "hūs", which is akin to the Old High German word "hūs". They both share a common Germanic origin "*hūsą". Further tracing takes us to the Proto-Indo-European root "*ku̯pes-" or "*ku̯op-", meaning "to cover".