zoning

1 of 2

noun

zon·​ing ˈzō-niŋ How to pronounce zoning (audio)
: the act or process of partitioning a city, town, or borough into zones reserved for different purposes (such as residence or business)
also : the set of ordinances by which such zones are established and regulated
voted to change the town's zoning
zoning laws

zoning

2 of 2

present participle of zone entry 2

Examples of zoning in a Sentence

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.
Noun
When the East Plano Islamic Center proposed a 400-acre development north of Dallas anchored by a mosque, an Islamic school and homes marketed to Muslim families, the response wasn’t ordinary zoning review. — Asma Uddin, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026 Forest Packaging, currently located in Elk Grove Village, received unanimous approval on Wednesday for a zoning change that allows the company to relocate to an existing building at 1450 Bowes Road. — Rick West, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 Katz ended up making the motion in favor of recommending the rezoning, saying the project fit with the town’s zoning plan and surrounding properties. — Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026 Both projects defy downtown zoning rules that encourage high-density developments while baring drive-thrus. — Kate Kealey, Des Moines Register, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for zoning

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zoning was in 1912

Rhymes for zoning

See All Rhymes for zoning

Browse Nearby Words

zoniferous
zoning
zonite
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Cite this Entry

“Zoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zoning. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Legal Definition

zoning

noun
zon·​ing
: municipal or county regulation of land use effected through the creation and enforcement of zones under local law
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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