Meaning & Definition of word "Precinct"

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    Precinct

    /ˈpriː.sɪŋkt/

    noun:

    • 1. A district or division of a city or town, often used for administrative purposes.
      • Example: The voting precinct was located in the local community center.
    • 2. The area surrounding a particular building or property, especially a police station or court.
      • Example: The police precinct has increased patrols in the neighborhood.
    • 3. A defined area for the jurisdiction of a specific governmental authority.
      • Example: Jurors were selected from a pool within the city’s precinct.

    Etymology

    From Middle English 'precincte', from Latin 'praecinctus', meaning 'to gird around'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    police precinct:

    A local area or district for police services.

    voting precinct:

    A specific location designated for voting activity.

    precinct captain:

    A person in charge of a precinct, especially during elections.

    Related Words

    jurisdiction:

    The official power to make legal decisions and judgments.

    district:

    A defined area, often with specific administrative purposes.

    Slang Meanings of precinct

    Meaning: A local area under police control.

    Example Sentence: You've got to be cautious in that precinct; the crime rate is high.

    Meaning: A voting area.

    Example Sentence: I need to find my precinct before I can vote.