Definition of "precinct"

precinct

/ˈpɹisɪŋkt/

noun
plural precincts
1. (chiefly in the plural) An enclosed space having defined limits, normally marked by walls.
  Quotations
  For, by the fundamental Laws of the Realm, it is Capital in any Perſon, of what Quality ſoever, to make water within the Precincts of the Palace.
  1726 October 28, [Jonathan Swift], “The Author by an Extraordinary Stratagem Prevents an Invasion. […]”, in Travels into Several Remote Nations of the World. […] [Gulliver’s Travels], volume I, London: […] Benj[amin] Motte, […], part I (A Voyage to Lilliput), page 91
2. (chiefly in the plural) The general area surrounding a place, environs.
3. (UK) A pedestrianized and uncovered shopping area.
4. (US, law enforcement) A subdivision of a city under the jurisdiction of a specific group of police; the police station situated in that district.
5. (US) A subdivision of a city or other locality for the purposes of voting and representation in local government. In cities, precincts may be grouped into wards.
6. (archaic) A district over which someone or some body of people has control in general; province, sphere of control.
  Quotations
  But ſince I loue to liue at libertie,As eaſily may you get the Souldans crowne,As any prizes out of my precinct.
  c. 1587–1588, [Christopher Marlowe], Tamburlaine the Great. […] The First Part […], 2nd edition, part 1, London: […] [R. Robinson for] Richard Iones, […], published 1592; reprinted as Tamburlaine the Great (A Scolar Press Facsimile), Menston, Yorkshire, London: Scolar Press, 1973, (please specify the page)
7. (archaic) A surrounding boundary or limit.

Definition of "precinct"

precinct

noun

Quotations

Quotations