Demarcating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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demarcating

[dษชหˆmษ‘หrkeษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

defining boundaries

Demarcating refers to the action of setting or marking the boundaries or limits of something. This can involve the physical act of placing markers or could be more abstract, such as defining the scope of a project or legal jurisdiction. The process of demarcation is crucial in various fields, including geography, law, and project management. By clearly defining boundaries, stakeholders can avoid conflicts and ensure clarity in roles, responsibilities, and expectations.

Synonyms

boundaried, delineated, marked.

Examples of usage

  • The surveyor is demarcating the property lines.
  • They are demarcating the area for a new park.
  • The team is demarcating their respective tasks for the project.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, demarcating species boundaries is crucial for classification and understanding ecosystems.
  • Cartographers demarcate geographical features on maps to help in navigation and exploration.
  • In environmental science, demarcating protected areas is essential for habitat preservation.

Sociology

  • Demarcating social roles can help establish clear expectations within a community or organization.
  • Groups often demarcate their membership boundaries to create a sense of identity and belonging.
  • Cultural demarcation can occur through traditions and practices that separate different communities.

Art and Design

  • In art, demarcating lines can be used to create structure and contrast within a composition.
  • Interior designers often demarcate spaces using color or furniture arrangement to define different areas in a room.
  • Graphic design relies heavily on demarcating elements to guide the viewerโ€™s eye and create visual hierarchy.

Legal Studies

  • Demarcation is a key concept in law when discussing territorial boundaries between nations.
  • In contract law, demarcating the terms and conditions helps prevent disputes between parties.
  • Land-use policies often involve legal processes for demarcating property lines that can affect ownership and rights.

Origin of 'demarcating'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin 'de-' meaning 'from' and 'marca' meaning 'boundary' or 'limit'.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 19th century to denote the action of marking boundaries.
  • Many legal documents use demarcating to specify property lines, which can date back centuries to the establishment of land ownership.

The term 'demarcate' originates from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'to remove' or 'opposite,' and 'marcate,' which comes from the Spanish word 'marcar', itself derived from the Latin 'marca', meaning 'mark' or 'boundary.' The practice of demarcating boundaries has been essential since ancient times when human societies began to establish territories and land ownership. Initially, this was done through natural markers like rivers and mountains, but as societies advanced, more systematic methods emerged. The formalization of boundaries became significant in legal contexts, especially in land ownership disputes and territorial agreements between nations. The term has evolved, and its usage has broadened to include abstract boundaries in various fields. It reflects the necessity for clarity in defining limits, whether physical or conceptual, to facilitate organization, governance, and mutual understanding.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,460 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.