Definition of bungalow

The word "bungalow" originated in South Asia, specifically in Bengal (present-day Bangladesh and India), during the British colonial era. In the 19th century, British architects and engineers began to design small, one-story houses with verandas and large windows for the local climate. They referred to these homes as "bangalow" or "banglow," which is derived from the Bengali words "bangla," meaning "Bengal," and "gali," meaning "house" or "courtyard." The term "bungalow" was first used in the mid-1800s in the Indian subcontinent, and later became popular in other British colonies, such as Southeast Asia and elsewhere in Asia. By the early 20th century, the style had spread to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it became a popular architectural style for vacation homes and suburban residences. Today, the term "bungalow" is used globally to describe small, cozy homes with a distinct charm.