Arrondissement

/ˌɑɹ.ɔn.dis.ˈmɑ̃/ noun

Definition

An administrative division or district of a city, particularly one of the 20 districts that make up Paris.

Etymology

From French 'arrondissement,' from 'arrondir' (to round/to make round). Originally meant to 'make round' a district, and the term entered English when referring to Parisian administrative divisions in the 1800s.

Kelly Says

Each Parisian arrondissement has its own character and history—the 5th is the Latin Quarter full of students, while the 16th is wealthy and residential—and locals identify strongly with their district number.

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