Definition of basement

Short definition: The word basement refers to the lowest level of a building, usually below ground, often used for storage, laundry, utilities, or sometimes converted into living space such as a bedroom, office, or recreation room.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word basement? The word basement is commonly used when talking about buildings and homes. It refers to a level of a building that is partly or completely below ground. Basements can be used for storage living space utilities or work areas depending on design. You will hear the word in real estate daily conversation and home improvement contexts. Below each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear human and practical.

basement n. /ˈbeɪsmənt/

Forms: basement, basements
Related: cellar n., foundation n., floor n.
Syllable: base-ment

  1. (Noun) The lowest level of a building that is partly or completely below ground.

    A basement is the floor of a building that sits below ground level, often used for storage laundry utilities or extra living space, and it may feel cooler darker or quieter than the rooms above.

    The old house had a basement where they stored boxes tools and seasonal decorations throughout the year.
    They converted the basement into a small home office to gain extra space without moving.
    During the storm everyone went down to the basement to stay safe.

    Synonyms: cellar, lower level, underground floor, sublevel, below ground room, lower story, foundation level, underground space, bottom floor, storage level, underground area, subfloor
    Antonyms: attic, upper floor, top level, rooftop space, above ground room, main floor, upper story, penthouse, loft, top story, high level, upstairs

  2. (Noun) A place associated with storage isolation or informal activities.

    Informally a basement can describe a space used for hobbies practice or private activities, often carrying a sense of being hidden away from the main living areas of a home.

    He practiced with his band in the basement so they would not disturb the neighbors upstairs.
    The kids turned the basement into a game room where they could relax and make noise.
    She worked late in the basement where it was quiet and free from interruptions.

    Synonyms: private space, hidden room, underground area, practice room, storage area, informal room, quiet space, lower level room, tucked away place, secluded area, hobby room, off main space
    Antonyms: living room, main area, public space, open room, central area, common room, shared space, upstairs room, front room, visible area, social space, main floor

An Explanation of the Word "basement" in an Image

Landscape photo of a modern overseas mall basement parking area with cars, directional signs, escalators, and shoppers moving toward the mall interior.
A wide-angle view of a modern underground mall basement parking area abroad, showing clear signage, escalator access, parked cars, and people walking toward the shopping area.

Conversation Using the Word Basement

The following conversation takes place between two friends talking about home improvements. It shows how the word basement is used naturally in everyday English when discussing space, storage, and home comfort.

The conversation reflects common experiences people have with basements, including renovation ideas and practical concerns like lighting and moisture.

Daniel: Have you done anything with your basement yet?

Rachel: Not much, it’s still mostly storage, but I’m thinking about renovating it.

Daniel: A finished basement could be really useful.

Rachel: Exactly, maybe a small office or a guest room.

Daniel: Does it get much natural light down there?

Rachel: A little, there’s a basement window, but I need better lighting.

Daniel: Once it’s done, the basement will feel like real living space.

Rachel: That’s the goal, I want it to feel comfortable, not forgotten.

Phrases Containing the Word Basement

The phrases below show how the word basement is commonly used when talking about houses, storage, space, and everyday home activities.

Basement room

A room below ground.

The basement room was cool and quiet, making it a good place for storage and occasional work.

Finished basement

A basement adapted for living.

They turned the finished basement into a cozy family room with a sofa and a small TV.

Unfinished basement

A raw basement space.

The unfinished basement was mainly used to store boxes, tools, and old furniture.

Basement storage

Keeping items below ground.

Basement storage helped free up space in the rest of the house.

Basement stairs

Steps leading down.

He walked carefully down the basement stairs while carrying a heavy box.

Basement floor

The ground-level surface.

The basement floor felt cold underfoot, especially in winter.

Basement door

An entrance to the basement.

The basement door was usually kept locked for safety.

Basement window

A small ground-level window.

Light came in through a small basement window near the ceiling.

Basement laundry

Washing area downstairs.

The basement laundry area kept noise away from the main living space.

Basement ceiling

The top surface.

The low basement ceiling made the space feel smaller.

Basement renovation

Improving the space.

The basement renovation turned a dark area into a bright guest room.

Basement smell

A damp odor.

They installed better ventilation to remove the basement smell.

Basement flooding

Water entering the space.

Heavy rain caused basement flooding in several houses nearby.

Basement wall

The supporting structure.

Cracks in the basement wall needed to be repaired quickly.

Basement light

Lighting fixture.

A bright basement light made the space feel safer and more welcoming.

Basement workspace

A working area.

He set up a basement workspace for hobbies and repairs.

Basement entrance

Way into the basement.

The basement entrance was located at the back of the house.

Basement temperature

Cool indoor climate.

The basement temperature stayed cool even during summer.

Basement apartment

A living unit below ground.

The basement apartment was small but affordable and well maintained.

Basement space

Extra room.

Using basement space wisely can greatly increase storage capacity.

Words Rhyme with basement

statement
placement
replacement
displacement
encasement
debasement
effacement
pavement
payment
adjacement
amazement
engagement
arrangement
management
judgment
apartment
department
compartment
government
environment
requirement
retirement
investment
adjustment
attachment
detachment
resentment
contentment
repayment
underpayment
POS: Noun  Category: Building Parts, Places