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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Out under the pergola where alfresco dining space is found. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 10 Sep. 2025 If the idea of mingling with nude strangers feels more stressful than serene, instead head to Tempelhofer Feld, a former airfield transformed into a 741-acre expanse (Berlin’s largest outdoor space) perfect for jogging, biking, or an alfresco meal. Blane Bachelor, AFAR Media, 29 Aug. 2025 In the great room, there is a full bar and a dining table for eight, while outside, the patio or balcony provides lounge seating and a dining area for alfresco meals. Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025 Serena & Lily can help in that department with their ongoing sales promotions, offering up to 20% off alfresco dining festivities and can’t-miss deals in their regular clearance section. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 15 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for alfresco

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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Cite this Entry

“Alfresco.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alfresco. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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