What is an "English basement"?

The Free Dictionary defines an "English basement" as the lowest floor of a residential building that is partly below- and partly above-ground. According to the Washington Post, English basements are usually cheaper than above-ground apartments because of a lack of space and natural light.

According to the Washington Post, English basements can be good homes for people willing to live in an underground apartment or those who want to save money. English basements often have poor ventilation, causing odors to hang in the air. They are also notorious for being damp and being flooded if the drains and gutters of the main house are not kept clean.