Boroughs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðïļ
boroughs
[ËbĘr.É ]
Definitions
urban geography
A borough is a town or district which is an administrative unit in some countries.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| boroughs |
This word is often used primarily in British English when referring to administrative divisions within large cities or towns. In the United States, it is commonly associated with certain cities like New York, where it denotes one of the main administrative divisions (e.g., Manhattan, Brooklyn).
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| district |
This term is more general and can be used globally to describe any official area or region within a city, town, or even a country. Districts can be administrative, business, or residential. It is versatile and not specific to one country or form of governance.
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| township |
Commonly used in the United States, a township represents a type of municipality or subdivision of a county, especially in rural areas. It is less common in urban settings and often implies a smaller, community-focused area.
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Examples of usage
- There are five boroughs in New York City.
- London is divided into 32 boroughs.
historical
In medieval times, a borough was a fortified town or walled city.
Synonyms
fortified town, walled city.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| boroughs |
Typically used to refer to administrative divisions within a large city, often with their own local government structures and identifiable communities. Common in cities like New York.
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| fortified town |
Used to describe a town that has been strengthened with defensive walls, ramparts, or other military fortifications. Often historical and might evoke a sense of old, medieval times.
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| walled city |
Used predominantly to describe a city or town enclosed by walls. Often historical and emphasizes the physical barrier around the settlement.
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Examples of usage
- The borough of Dover dates back to the 9th century.
- Many boroughs in England have ancient city walls.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geography
- New York City has five boroughs â Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island, each with its own character and culture.
- In the UK, boroughs are often part of larger metropolitan areas and can range from bustling urban centers to quaint villages.
Governance
- Boroughs in the UK have legal powers to govern themselves, including managing local services like schools and trash collection.
- In the USA, boroughs can vary widely in governance, from highly populated areas like Anchorage, Alaska, to smaller rural communities in Pennsylvania.
Cultural Significance
- Boroughs can be hotbeds of culture, often hosting unique festivals, food markets, and art scenes that reflect local traditions.
- The concept of boroughs fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents, making neighborhood identity important.
Modern Usage
- Boroughs are increasingly recognized as important units for planning urban development and improving local infrastructure.
- The term 'borough' has seen a revival in cities worldwide, inspiring local governments to create more localized governance structures.
Origin of 'boroughs'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'borough' comes from Old English 'burh', meaning 'fortress' or 'stronghold', showing its historical importance.
- In Middle Ages England, a borough was a town that could create its own local laws and governments.
The word 'borough' originated from the Old English word 'burh', which meant a fortified town. It has been used in various forms in English since the 9th century. The concept of boroughs as administrative units in cities dates back to medieval times, and the term is commonly used in the United Kingdom and the United States.