plaza

noun

pla·​za ˈplä-zə  ˈpla- 

1

a

: a public square in a city or town

b

: an open area usually located near urban buildings and often featuring walkways, trees and shrubs, places to sit, and sometimes shops

2

: a place on a thoroughfare (such as a turnpike) at which all traffic must temporarily stop (as to pay tolls)

3

: an area adjacent to an expressway which has service facilities (such as a restaurant, gas station, and restrooms)

4

: shopping center

Examples of plaza in a Sentence

They put his statue in the town's plaza.

Recent Examples on the Web

Councilmember Kathy Tavoularis was skeptical any barrier could stop drivers barreling in at high speed and pushed to close the plaza overnight, which city staff said would come with logistical and financial hurdles. —Hanna Kang, Oc Register, 26 Sep. 2025

The city’s plan for the property would put a greater emphasis on outdoor spaces, with parks, plazas and streets. —Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2025

Hussong said the final design for the plaza is expected to be released soon. —Maya Bell, Twin Cities, 25 Sep. 2025

For 10 days in January, the LiLu Lights Festival showcases the work of artists who illuminate streets, plazas, and structures throughout the city with light installations. —AFAR Media, 24 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Latin platea broad street — more at place

First Known Use

1683, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing plaza

• toll plaza

Rhymes for plaza

• causa

Kids Definition

plaza

noun

pla·​za ˈplaz-ə  ˈpläz- 

: a public square in a city or town