B1noun2K

Tent

UK /["/tent/"]/US /["/tent/"]/

Definition

a shelter made of a large sheet of canvas, nylon, etc. that is supported by poles and ropes fixed to the ground, and is used especially for camping

In simple words: A portable shelter made of cloth and supported by poles.

Examples

  • to **put up/take down a tent**
  • to **pitch** *(= put up)* **a tent**
  • Food will be served in the hospitality tent *(= for example at an outdoor show)*.
  • Everyone was sleeping outside in tents.
  • The refugees had been living in makeshift tents for a year.
  • The reporters were waiting for the winners to come to the press tent.
  • There was a long queue of troops outside the cookhouse tent.
  • A tent city housing refugees from the war sprang up.

Usage notes

Use 'tent' when discussing camping or outdoor activities. It is not suitable for formal or indoor contexts, except when referring to specific types of tents for events.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'tent' as a 'tense' space where you can relax outside.

Collocations

  • camping
  • A-frame
  • dome
  • row
  • erect
  • pitch
  • put up
  • blow down
  • collapse
  • blow away
  • camp
  • city
  • door
  • in a/​the tent

Synonyms

  • shelter
  • canopy
  • pavilion
  • awning

Antonyms

  • house
  • building

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'tent' with 'tarpaulin' — a tarpaulin is a thicker waterproof cover.
  • Using 'tents' incorrectly with non-camping contexts, like in architecture discussions.