outbuilding

IPA/ˈaʊtbɪldɪŋ/
IPA/ˈaʊtbɪldɪŋ/

outbuilding — noun

  • outbuildingsingular
  • outbuildingsplural

1. a smaller building separate from the main house, on the same grounds, used as a

1.nounB2
Definition

a smaller building separate from the main house, on the same grounds, used as a garage, shed, barn, or similar

Example

Sven converted the old outbuilding behind his farmhouse into a pottery studio.

converted + outbuilding + into [new use]

The outbuilding held nothing but old garden tools and dusty furniture.

Common collocations
  • converted outbuilding
  • old outbuilding
  • stone outbuilding
  • wooden outbuilding
  • outbuilding on the property
Synonyms
  • shed

    a shed is a specific type of outbuilding, usually a simple structure for storage

  • annexe

    an annexe is typically attached or directly connected; an outbuilding is always separate

  • outhouse

    in modern usage, 'outhouse' usually means an outdoor toilet; 'outbuilding' is neutral

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

An outbuilding is a general term for any separate smaller building on the same property as a main house. A shed is a specific type of outbuilding, usually a simple structure for storing tools or equipment. An annexe (or annex) is an extension or addition to a building, often connected by a passageway — unlike an outbuilding, it is not fully separate. In modern usage, an outhouse refers specifically to an outdoor toilet, while outbuilding carries no such association. If you are describing a separate structure used for any purpose — garage, workshop, barn, or studio — outbuilding is the safest and most neutral choice.

Common collocations

Nouns

  • farm outbuilding
  • garden outbuilding
  • stone outbuilding

Phrases

  • converted outbuilding
  • detached outbuilding

Prepositions

Etymology

Old EnglishEnglish

From out- (prefix meaning 'outside, external') combined with building. First recorded in English in the early 17th century, it originally referred to any structure built outside the main dwelling on a property.

First known use

1600

1600, in the meaning defined above