Crame, typically spelled as 'kraim,' is a noun that originated from Philippine English, specifically the Filipino language. It is widely used in the Philippines to refer to a police station or a detention center. The term is mainly employed colloquially, particularly among the Filipino population, though it is not exclusive to informal conversations.
A crame is a physical facility where law enforcement agencies, such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), conduct their administrative and operational activities. These establishments serve as the primary headquarters for police officers and other personnel responsible for maintaining public order, safety, and security. Crame often houses various police units, including investigation departments, administrative offices, and facilities for detaining individuals who have been arrested or are awaiting trial.
The term 'crame' is derived from Camp Crame, a well-known police facility located in Quezon City, Philippines. Named after Col. Henry Crame, an American soldier who served in the Philippines during the early 20th century, the camp has historic significance as the former Philippine Constabulary headquarters. Due to its prominence and widespread usage, 'crame' has become a genericized term to refer to any police station or detention center across the country.
In summary, 'crame' is a common and informal Filipino term used to denote a police station or detention center, originating from Camp Crame in Quezon City, Philippines.
