countryside
UK: ˈkʌntrɪsaɪd | US: ˈkʌntriˌsaɪd
n. rural areas, as opposed to towns or cities; the natural landscape outside urban areas
n. a particular rural region or its inhabitants
The word "countryside" combines "country" (from Old French "contrée," meaning "land" or "region," derived from Latin "contrata" via Vulgar Latin) and "side" (from Old English "sīde," meaning "flank" or "region"). Originally, "country" referred to a territorial division, while "side" denoted a distinct area. By the 16th century, "countryside" emerged to describe rural landscapes, contrasting with urban spaces. The term reflects the division between cultivated/natural land ("country") and its broader expanse ("side").
They moved to the countryside for a quieter life.
The countryside was covered in golden wheat fields.
Pollution levels are significantly lower in the countryside.
She enjoys painting landscapes of the English countryside.
Modern amenities are slowly reaching remote countryside areas.