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Enclave Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enclave

[หˆษ›ล‹kleษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

political territory

An enclave is a portion of territory that is entirely surrounded by the territory of another state. It often refers to a culturally distinct area, or a community where a particular ethnic group resides that is different from the surrounding population. Enclaves can arise due to various historical, political, or social factors and can sometimes lead to tensions between different groups. Examples include the Vatican City, which is an enclave within Italy, and Lesotho, which is an enclave within South Africa.

Synonyms

enclosure, island, outpost.

Examples of usage

  • The Vatican City is a renowned enclave in Rome.
  • Lesotho is a landlocked enclave in South Africa.
  • The enclave was established to protect the minority community.
  • Developing an enclave can lead to economic isolation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Enclaves often exist in urban areas, where different cultures maintain distinct identities, like Chinatown in various cities around the world.
  • Many historical enclaves have served as safe havens for groups seeking refuge or community, such as the Jewish ghettos during World War II.

Geopolitics

  • Enclaves can create complex political situations, as seen in the case of Vatican City, which is an independent enclave within Italy.
  • Some countries have enclaves as part of their borders, like Lesotho, entirely surrounded by South Africa.

Art and Literature

  • Enclaves can symbolize isolation or uniqueness in literature, often representing characters or themes that stand apart from society.
  • Artistic representations of enclaves often highlight the contrast between the enclosed space and the outside world, using vibrant imagery to depict different lifestyles.

Society and Psychology

  • Living in an enclave can influence social behavior, creating tight-knit communities that offer support, but sometimes lead to challenges in integration with the broader society.
  • Psychologically, enclave living can foster a sense of belonging, particularly for individuals facing discrimination or seeking a community with shared values.

Origin of 'enclave'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'enclave' comes from the Latin word 'clavis', meaning 'key', referring to an area that is locked or separated.
  • It was first used in the English language in the 17th century, rooted in the idea of a piece of land surrounded or enclosed by something else.

The term 'enclave' is derived from the French word 'enclave', which originates from the Latin 'clavare', meaning 'to key in' or 'to lock'. It first appeared in English in the 17th century, primarily in the context of territorial disputes among European nations. The concept of enclaves has historical roots in various political and ethnic divisions, often linked to wars, colonization, and migration. Enclaves have also been significant in the context of cultural preservation, allowing certain ethnic or cultural groups to maintain their identity despite being surrounded by different populations. The use of 'enclave' has evolved, and it now also refers to various legal or informal areas that share a distinct identity or characteristics within a larger entity.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,923, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.