Real Dictionary

patio
countable noun: A patio is an area of flat blocks or concrete next to a house, where people can sit and relax or eat.

patio in American English
a courtyard or inner area open to the sky, as in Spanish and Spanish-American architecture
noun: an area, usually paved, adjoining a house and used as an area for outdoor lounging, dining, etc.

patio in British English
noun: an open inner courtyard, esp one in a Spanish or Spanish-American house