alfresco

adjective or adverb

al·​fres·​co al-ˈfre-(ˌ)skō How to pronounce alfresco (audio)
: taking place or located in the open air : outdoor, outdoors
an alfresco lunch
an alfresco café
dining alfresco

Did you know?

In addition to describing a type of dining, alfresco can also describe a kind of painting. The word fresco, which comes from the Italian adjective fresco, meaning "fresh," refers to a method of painting on fresh plaster. Although the "outdoors" sense of alfresco is by far the most common in current use, the term is sometimes used to describe painting done in the fresco manner—that is, on fresh plaster.

Examples of alfresco in a Sentence

the restaurant's shaded terrace is highly recommended for those seeking to dine alfresco during the summer months, the theater company puts on a series of alfresco performances
Recent Examples on the Web For those wanting to follow their workout with an alfresco moment, there’s Asaya Kitchen and most recently, the Rossano Ferretti HairSpa opened in the wellness complex of the luxury property. Luis Campuzano, WWD, 15 June 2024 Sanlitun’s embassy area is nearby, offering many light brunch options, most of which are alfresco. Luis Campuzano, WWD, 15 June 2024 There is also the alfresco performance that introduces us to Regina: a beguiling Dionysian spectacle, with actors in flowing white costumes and horned animal masks, which Baker records with an almost anthropological wonderment, plus the faintest whisper of satire. Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 14 June 2024 The owner’s deck features folding balconies that open to create extra alfresco chill spots as needed. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 May 2024 The owner also decided to add a balcony to the main deck and an outdoor bar to every level because alfresco cocktails are always welcome after the nine-to-five slog. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2024 There are also multiple terraces, an alfresco kitchen and dining area, plus a sunken lounge with a fire pit. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 15 Mar. 2024 The grounds around the house sport an alfresco kitchen, covered terracotta patios, an in-ground swimming pool, a cozy firepit, and a bocce court. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 1 Mar. 2024 Be sure to experience one of the best hydrotherapy circuits in the region, and book a table at the chic, alfresco Lobster House for a memorable romantic dinner. Meagan Drillinger, Travel + Leisure, 18 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'alfresco.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Italian

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alfresco was in 1753

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Dictionary Entries Near alfresco

Cite this Entry

“Alfresco.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alfresco. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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