precinct

 
Pronunciation: /ˈpriːsɪŋ(k)t/

noun

  • 1 (usually precincts) the area within the walls or perceived boundaries of a particular building or place: a former MP who still works in the precincts of the House
  • an enclosed or clearly defined area of ground around a cathedral, church, or college: the precincts of the abbey church
  • 2British an area in a town designated for specific or restricted use, especially one which is closed to traffic: a pedestrian precinct
  • 3North American a district of a city or town as defined for policing purposes.
  • the police station situated in a precinct: at the precinct a desk sergeant ran through her ID
  • an electoral district of a city or town served by a single polling station: with 35 per cent of the precincts declaring, he had 51 per cent of the vote

Origin:

late Middle English (denoting an administrative district): from medieval Latin praecinctum, neuter past participle (used as a noun) of praecingere 'encircle', from prae 'before' + cingere 'gird'