townhouse

UK: ˈtaʊnhaʊs | US: ˈtaʊnhaʊs

Definition
  1. n. a type of house that is part of a row of similar houses sharing side walls

  2. n. (chiefly US) a modern, multi-story urban residence, often with shared amenities

Structure
town <settlement>house <dwelling>
Etymology

The word "townhouse" combines "town," derived from Old English tūn (enclosure, settlement), and "house," from Old English hūs (dwelling). Historically, a townhouse referred to a residence owned by a wealthy family in a city, distinguishing it from their country estate. Over time, especially in American English, it evolved to describe attached urban dwellings, emphasizing shared walls and vertical living spaces.

Examples
  1. They bought a spacious townhouse in the city center.

  2. The historic townhouse was converted into luxury apartments.

  3. Townhouses are popular among young professionals for their convenience.

  4. Her townhouse has a rooftop garden with a view of the skyline.

  5. The row of Victorian townhouses was preserved as a heritage site.