1. a sunken area or passageway in front of a basement window or door, allowing light and air to enter below ground level
Usage: chiefly British; architectural term

Examples

• The townhouse had a narrow areaway that provided ventilation to the basement rooms.
• Leaves and debris often collect in the areaway during autumn.
• The architect designed the areaway to maximize natural light in the lower level.
• A metal grate covers the areaway to prevent people from falling in.
• The areaway connects the street level to the basement entrance.