paseo

Paseo is a Spanish word with several related meanings centered on walking and public space. As a noun, it denotes a stroll or leisurely walk, often taken for pleasure, and can describe the activity itself as well as the place where it occurs.

In urban planning and architecture, paseo refers to a public pedestrian space—typically a promenade, walkway, or covered arcade—designed for walking and socializing. Paseos are commonly found along city waterfronts, between plazas, or as part of residential or commercial developments, and may be tree-lined and landscaped to provide a leisurely route for pedestrians.

In place names and street naming, paseo appears in many Spanish-speaking locales as part of the name of a thoroughfare or public space, such as Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City or paseo marítimo along a coast; the term conveys a ceremonial or leisurely character to the route.

The word can also describe a social habit in Hispanic cultures, referring to the practice of going for a paseo—an informal outing with family or friends, particularly on weekends or late afternoons.

Etymology: from paseo, from the verb pasear, to stroll.

See also: promenade, esplanade, boulevard.