Synonyms of precinct
1
: a part of a territory with definite bounds or functions often established for administrative purposes : district: such as
a
: a subdivision of a county, town, city, or ward for election purposes
b
: a division of a city for police control
2
a
: an enclosure bounded by the walls of a building
often plural
b
: a sphere of thought, action, or influence
often plural
3
a
precincts plural : the region immediately surrounding a place : environs
b
4
: boundary
often plural
… a ruined tower within the precincts of the squire's grounds …T. L. Peacock

Examples of precinct in a Sentence

Voting results from several precincts are delayed. They were taken to the precinct for questioning.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Additionally, four new precincts have been created, though voters in each new precinct will continue to vote at the same polling location tied to their old precinct, Dickens said. Joseph Flaherty, Arkansas Online, 1 Sep. 2026 Simmons suggested each commissioner help find more locations in their precincts instead of relying on the election administration. Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Aug. 2026 There are also a few revitalized inner-city precincts that really showcase Joburg’s cool factor. Paul Jebara, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Aug. 2026 With 181 of 318 precincts reporting, McCollum led by 92,944 votes to 76,259, or 55 percent to 45 percent. Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for precinct

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin praecinctum, from Latin, neuter of praecinctus, past participle of praecingere to gird, encircle, from prae- pre- + cingere to gird — more at cincture

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of precinct was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Precinct.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/precinct. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: an administrative district especially of a town or city
a police precinct
an electoral precinct
2
: a surrounding or enclosed area
within the precincts of the college
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