præcinct

Noun

precinct (plural precincts)

1. (in plural) An enclosed space having defined limits, normally marked by walls.
   • 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...
2. (in plural) The general area surrounding a place, environs.
3. (UK) A pedestrianized and uncovered shopping area.
4. (US) 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.
   • 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 (date written), [Christopher Marlowe], Tamburlaine the Great. […] The First Part […], 2nd edition, part 1, London: […] [R. Robinson for] Richard Iones, […], published 1592, →OCLC...

See all 7 meanings of precinct