Arrondissement is a French word that has gained popularity across the world. It is often used to refer to administrative divisions in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions. However, the meaning and definition of arrondissement go beyond just a geographical term. In this article, we will explore the different definitions, origins, and associations of arrondissement.
Definitions
Arrondissement is a French term that means district or administrative division. It is used to refer to the subdivisions of a department in France or a province in Belgium. In France, there are 342 arrondissements, while Belgium has 43. These subdivisions are further divided into communes or municipalities.
Apart from its use in administrative divisions, arrondissement can also refer to a particular area or neighborhood in a city. This usage is common in French-speaking countries, where arrondissements are used to refer to different parts of a city.
Origin
The word arrondissement has its roots in the French language. It is derived from the Old French word arrondir, which means to round off. The term was first used in the 16th century to refer to a circular or rounded object. Over time, it came to be used in a more figurative sense to refer to the rounding off of administrative divisions.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of arrondissement is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a district or administrative division in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions. Some dictionaries also include the additional meaning of a particular area or neighborhood in a city.
Associations
Arrondissement is associated with France and other French-speaking regions. It is often used in the context of administrative divisions and local government. In addition, arrondissement is associated with the city of Paris, where it is used to refer to the 20 districts that make up the city.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for arrondissement, including district, division, sector, zone, and neighborhood. These terms are often used interchangeably, depending on the context in which they are used.
Antonyms
The antonyms of arrondissement include province, state, country, and nation. These terms are used to refer to larger administrative divisions that encompass several arrondissements.
The same root words
Some words that have the same root as arrondissement include arrondi, which means rounded or curved, and arrondir, which means to round off or smooth out.
Example Sentences
- The arrondissement of Paris is divided into 20 districts.
- The city council is responsible for managing the local government in each arrondissement.
- The arrondissement of Brussels is made up of 19 municipalities.
- The arrondissement of Lyon is known for its historic architecture and cultural landmarks.
- The arrondissement of Marseille is home to some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.