area

ar-e-a · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A region or part of a town, country, or the world.

  2. 2.

    A space allocated for a specific purpose.

  3. 3.

    A subject or range of activity.

  4. 4.

    [mathematics]The extent of a two-dimensional surface, measured in square units.

  5. 5.

    The scope or range of something.

Forms

plural: areas

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    grey area — A situation or topic not clearly defined.
  • •
    area code — A telephone dialing code for a region.
  • •
    no-go area — A place that is dangerous or off-limits.
  • •
    area of expertise — A subject in which someone specializes.

Related words

See also: region, space, territory, zone
Synonyms: district, region, sector, zone

Etymology

From Latin area ("a level piece of ground, open space, courtyard, threshing floor"), possibly related to arere ("to be dry").