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 Dinning here is alfresco, and the chef’s menus of world cuisine and Filipino classics change daily. Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 10 July 2024 Don’t fret though: No matter the size or shape of your balcony, my golden rule of three will transform it into the alfresco space of your dreams. Aksha Mittapalli, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 2024 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 See all Example Sentences for alfresco 

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 26 Jul. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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