What is a Balcony Called in the USA? A Gamer‘s Perspective

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a lifetime gamer and content creator focused on the gaming industry, I spend a lot of time analyzing details and terminology. And in my American home, one term I analyzed closely is what to call my favorite gaming spot – my balcony!

When creating the ideal gaming setup, having an outdoor space attached to my game room was crucial. As a passionate gamer, I love letting the fresh air in while live streaming playthroughs of the latest indie horror release or unboxing a collector‘s edition.

So what do Americans officially call this treasured outdoor gaming sanctuary? Let‘s analyze the terminology.

Balcony

The most common term used across all of the United States is simply "balcony." My enclosed balcony protruding from my suburban California game room gives me sweeping views of my neighborhood while housing my high-end gaming PC setup.

According to American architects, a balcony is defined as:

"A platform enclosed by a railing or parapet on at least one side, projecting from or recessed into the walls of structures at various levels above the ground."

So in technical terms, my second-story perch loaded with RGB gaming gear fits the textbook description of a balcony.

Regional Variations

However, dive deeper into American terminology, and several other region-specific terms also apply. Let‘s analyze some niche names that my fellow gaming content creators may use to describe their own outdoor gaming havens:

Veranda

While a balcony specifically juts out from a building, a veranda tends to extend across multiple sides, even wrapping entirely around a structure. Veranda is commonly used in the Southern United States according to linguists.

My gaming balcony only extends from one side of my game room. But if I expanded it to cover the entire wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, "veranda" would then apply based on the Southern American dialect.

Porch or Lanai

Here‘s where things get tricky! Technically my balcony is on the second floor of my home. However, Hawaii and Florida frequently use the terms "lanai" and sometimes "porch" to describe covered, outdoor balconies.

As a gaming commentator focusing my stream on the latest tropical-themed releases, I could flex my knowledge of Hawaiian vocabulary and call my balcony a "lanai" instead!

Terrace

A terrace refers to any flat, outdoor area – so technically the term could apply to balconies too. Of course, I utilize my balcony like a terrace – jurisdicationing a hammock next to my gaming chair for enjoying the summer breeze between online matches.

Gallery

In Southern American architecture, a covered porch supported by columns is often called a gallery. Since my balcony has a retractable canopy rather than columns, I personally don‘t think "gallery" suits it. But fellow gaming content creators using canopies or awnings on their balconies could reasonably use the term!

The Verdict? Stick With Balcony!

While exotic terms like lanai and veranda sound exciting, the consensus is clear across linguists and architects – if speaking broadly across American English, "balcony" remains the most common and easily understood term.

In my opinion, as gaming content creators our job is making insightful commentary as accessible as possible for the gaming community. So I stand by using the simplest terminology – hence calling my beloved, tropical-themed gaming sanctuary a "balcony" so all my live stream viewers understand!

Of course, niche gaming vocabulary does have its perks. When unboxing a new graphics card upgrade or streaming an indie horror game at midnight, I may spice up my commentary by referring to my balcony as a "veranda" or "lanai"! A little creative lingo keeps things fresh.

But when speaking broadly about the amazing outdoor gaming set up that balcony allows? I‘ll stick to the classic "balcony" so gamers across the country comprehend exactly what I mean!

Let me know if you fellow gaming content creators disagree in the comments – and what you call your own outdoor gaming sanctuaries! Do you have a scenic balcony or streaming from a lanai? Describe your set up below!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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