Perambulate - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

walking around

To perambulate means to walk through, about, or over a particular area or place, often for the purpose of inspection or survey. It implies a leisurely or systematic exploration or examination of a space. The term can also refer to traveling around a property to determine its bounds or limits, particularly in legal contexts. Perambulation can be associated with both urban and rural settings, and sometimes refers to the act of casually strolling or wandering without a specific destination.

Synonyms

explore, roam, stroll, traverse, wander.

Examples of usage

They decided to perambulate the park every Saturday morning.
The surveyor was hired to perambulate the land and map its boundaries.
She enjoyed perambulating through the historic district of the city.
During the summer, families would perambulate along the beach.

Interesting Facts

History

Historical figures, such as surveyors and town criers, would perambulate to mark boundaries and announce news to the populace.
In medieval England, certain rights of way were established through the practice of perambulation, where locals would walk paths to assert ownership.
Some ancient cultures used perambulation in rituals to bless and sanctify the land.

Literature

In poetry, the act of perambulating has been used as a metaphor for exploring thoughts and feelings, representing both physical and mental journeys.
Notable authors like Charles Dickens have vivid descriptions of characters perambulating through city streets, symbolizing social exploration.
Perambulation can sometimes represent the wanderlust theme, highlighting the desire to explore and discover new experiences.

Science

In ecology, perambulation can refer to the walking or monitoring of specific paths to study wildlife and local flora.
Urban planners often engage in perambulation to understand traffic patterns and the needs of community fabric.
The concept is also relevant in physical education, where walking is promoted for health and wellness benefits.

Pop Culture

Films often depict characters perambulating, reflecting searches for connection or understanding within their communities.
Walking tours have become popular in various cities, turning the act of perambulation into a unique tourism experience.
The notion of perambulating through parks or natural settings is commonly featured in romantic films, emphasizing tranquility and connection with nature.

Origin of 'perambulate'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Latin, where 'per-' means 'through' and 'ambulare' means 'to walk'.
It first appeared in English in the 16th century, gaining a specific meaning of walking for inspection or surveying.
The term is often used in legal contexts, referring to official surveys or inspections of land.

The word 'perambulate' comes from the Latin 'perambulare', which is composed of 'per-', meaning 'through', and 'ambulare', meaning 'to walk'. The term has historical roots in English law, where it was used to describe the practice of walking around the boundaries of a property to informally define its limits. The use of the verb in English dates back to the 15th century, with the nuance of wandering or exploring an area established by the 17th century. Over time, 'perambulate' has retained its somewhat formal and literary tone, often used in contexts related to surveying land or leisurely exploration. Its applicability in both casual and technical settings gives it a unique place in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,058, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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39055 arthroscope
39056 flannelette
39057 hatefully
39058 perambulate
39059 dauber
39060 presidentially
39061 prototyped
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Perambulate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations