Zonal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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zonal

[ˈzoʊ.nəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

geographic area

The term 'zonal' refers to anything that relates to or is arranged in zones. It is commonly used in geography to describe features, phenomena, or attributes that vary across different areas or zones. Zonal distinctions can be particularly important in studies of climate, ecosystems, or urban planning, where different zones might exhibit varying characteristics and behaviors. In horticulture, 'zonal' may refer to specific planting zones that dictate which plants thrive in certain climates. The concept of zoning is also fundamental in city planning to designate land use.

Synonyms

divisional, regional, sectoral.

Examples of usage

  • Zonal climate differences affect the types of vegetation that can grow in an area.
  • The city implemented zonal regulations to manage residential and commercial development.
  • Zonal isolation in agriculture determines the compatibility of crops in specific regions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Zonal studies in ecology help understand the distribution of species in different habitats and their interactions.
  • In climatology, the term describes different climate zones on Earth, such as tropical, temperate, and polar zones.
  • Agroecology uses zonal classifications to improve crop yield by understanding soil types and environmental conditions related to specific zones.

Education

  • Zonal planning in schools can help allocate resources efficiently across different grades and subjects.
  • Educational zones are used in policy-making to address different student needs and create tailored learning environments.
  • Zonal assessments in education allow for evaluating student performance based on regional or demographic factors.

Architecture

  • Zonal requirements in urban planning ensure that different areas are designated for residential, commercial, or industrial use.
  • Architects often consider zonal regulations when designing buildings, as these rules dictate the layout and use of space.
  • Green zoning encourages the integration of nature in urban areas to promote sustainability.

Sports

  • In football (soccer), teams often use zonal marking strategies to defend specific areas of the field.
  • Different sports facilities may have zonal arrangements to accommodate various activities, like swimming and gymnastics in one complex.
  • Coaches develop zonal systems to optimize player positioning based on game flow and opponent strategies.

Origin of 'zonal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'zonal' comes from 'zone', which has roots in the Latin word 'zona', meaning 'belt' or 'girdle'.
  • It has been used in English since the late 19th century, primarily in geography and ecology.
  • In linguistic terms, 'zonal' often appears in phrases discussing dialect regions or geographical variations.

The word 'zonal' originated from the Latin 'zona', meaning 'belt' or 'girdle', and it has been used in English since the mid-19th century. Initially, it was adopted into scientific and geographic terminologies to describe areas that could be classified into belts or zones. The transition of 'zona' into 'zonal' reflects a broadening usage that encompasses various fields, including ecology and urban studies, as well as practical applications like zoning laws. Over time, the meaning of 'zonal' has expanded to include any context in which systems or phenomena can be divided into specific areas, making it a versatile term in contemporary language.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,592, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.