Pronunciation: [vəɹˈandəz] (IPA) 
The word "verandas" is spelled with three syllables: /vəˈrændəz/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a stressed "ra" syllable pronounced as /ræ/. The final syllable is pronounced with a soft "d" sound followed by a "əz" sound. This word refers to a roofed, open-air space that is typically attached to the side of a house or building. It is commonly used for outdoor entertaining or relaxation.
Verandas, noun (plural): [vəˈrændəz]
1. A veranda is an external, open, and roofed structure attached to a building, typically built on the ground level and providing a covered and shaded space adjacent to a building's main entrance or exterior walls. It is generally constructed with a roof supported by pillars or columns, usually extending along the front or sides of a house, villa, or apartment building. Verandas often feature railings, balustrades, or decorative elements, designed to enhance the architectural aesthetics of the building.
2. This term can also be used to describe a long, panoramic, and elevated platform or balcony commonly found in hotels, resorts, or houses near the shoreline or with a scenic landscape. Such verandas are positioned and constructed in a way that allows inhabitants or guests to enjoy beautiful views, fresh air, and outdoor activities, such as dining, relaxation, or socializing. In this context, verandas are often equipped with suitable furniture, such as tables, chairs, or loungers, providing a comfortable environment for outdoor leisure activities.
Verandas serve multiple purposes, including extending living spaces, acting as transitional areas between interior and exterior, providing protection from direct sunlight or adverse weather conditions, and offering a pleasant area for social gatherings or personal relaxation. The design, size, and materials of verandas may vary greatly depending on the architectural style, cultural influences, climate, and personal preferences specific to a region or individual's tastes.
The word "veranda" is derived from the Portuguese term "varanda", which ultimately came from the Hindi word "varanda". In Hindi, "varanda" means a gallery or balcony, and it was borrowed by the Portuguese during their exploration and colonization of India. From Portuguese, the term spread to European languages and was later adopted into English as "veranda". Initially, the word referred to a type of open, roofed gallery or porch attached to a house, commonly found in Indian architecture. Over time, "veranda" has come to be associated with a similar structure found worldwide, typically characterized by a roof and an open or partially enclosed space, providing shade and a place for relaxation or socializing.
