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Cordoned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cordoned

[หˆkษ”rdษ™nd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law enforcement

To cordon off means to prevent access to an area by surrounding it with a barrier or a line of police, soldiers, or other authorities. This is often done to control crowds, secure a crime scene, or manage emergency situations. The action involves the physical establishment of boundaries and is essential in ensuring safety and order. The term is commonly used in discussions related to security operations, public health emergencies, and crime scene investigations.

Synonyms

barricade, enclose, surround.

Examples of usage

  • The police cordoned off the street to investigate the incident.
  • During the outbreak, health officials cordoned off the affected area.
  • The area was cordoned off to keep the media away.
  • They cordoned the park to protect the wildlife during breeding season.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law Enforcement

  • Often used in police and emergency situations to maintain safety around a crime scene or hazardous area.
  • Cordoning off can help control crowds during public events or emergencies, ensuring that only authorized personnel can enter.

Public Health

  • During epidemics, health authorities may cordon areas to prevent the spread of disease, isolating infected zones from healthy populations.
  • This practice can also apply to quarantine situations, particularly in cases of contagious diseases.

Military Use

  • In military operations, cordoning off an area allows for secure movements and the control of territory, particularly in conflict zones.
  • It is also a tactic used to capture or isolate a target area or enemy.

Urban Planning

  • Cities often create cordoned spaces for festivals and events, allowing for calmer crowds and safety measures, like blocking off streets.
  • Temporary cordons can also be established for construction and street repairs to protect pedestrians.

Origin of 'cordoned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French term 'cordon', meaning 'ribbon' or 'string', originally referring to a line made of a cord.
  • In English, the term started being used in the late 19th century, reflecting its relationship with boundaries and restrictions.

The word 'cordon' originates from the French term 'cordon', meaning 'a cord or string'. Its use in English can be traced back to the late 16th century, where it initially referred to a rope or cord used to secure a place. Over time, the term evolved to describe a line or barrier formed by a cord, which was then adopted into military and law enforcement contexts. By the 19th century, 'cordon' began to take on the additional meaning of surrounding and isolating an area to control access. The term has since become synonymous with security and control measures in various situations, particularly in law enforcement and emergency management.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,974 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.