precinct

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noun pre·cinct \ˈprē-ˌsiŋ(k)t\

Simple Definition of precinct

: any one of the sections that a town or city is divided into when people vote in an election
: any one of the sections that a city is divided into for organizing the city's police forces
: a police station of a precinct

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of precinct

1 : a part of a territory with definite bounds or functions often established for administrative purposes : district: as a : a subdivision of a county, town, city, or ward for election purposes b : a division of a city for police control
2 a : an enclosure bounded by the walls of a building —often used in plural b : a sphere of thought, action, or influence —often used in plural
3 a plural : the region immediately surrounding a place : environs b : place, locale
4 : boundary —often used in plural <a ruined tower within the precincts of the squire's grounds — T. L. Peacock>

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Examples of precinct in a sentence

<a sexist attitude that was pretty common in the precincts of the automobile business>

Origin and Etymology of precinct

Middle English, from Medieval Latin praecinctum, from Latin, neuter of praecinctus, past participle of praecingere to gird, encircle, from prae- pre- + cingere to gird — more at cincture

First Known Use: 15th century

PRECINCT Defined for Kids

precinct

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noun pre·cinct \ˈprē-ˌsiŋkt\

Definition of precinct for Students

1 : any of the sections into which a town or city is divided for a particular purpose (as voting or police protection)
2 : a surrounding or enclosed area <Stay within school precincts.>