Pronunciation: [fˈɔːbɜːɡ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "faubourg" can be tricky due to its French origin. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /fəʊˈbʊə(r)ɡ/ or "foh-boorg". The silent "u" and "g" at the end can often be confusing for English speakers. The word means a suburb in French and is generally used in historical or literary contexts. When writing this word, it is important to remember its unique spelling and pronunciation to avoid errors.
A faubourg, a French term derived from the Latin "fallere" meaning "to deceive," is a term used to describe a section or an outlying district located near the perimeter of a city, typically outside its protective walls or fortifications, but within its administrative boundaries. Historically, in France, this term was widely used to refer to suburbs or neighborhoods that grew outside the main city walls or gates during ancient times.
In essence, a faubourg refers to the outskirts or periphery of a city, characterized by its distinctive architectural, cultural, and social features. These areas are often marked by the presence of low-rise residential buildings, commercial establishments, markets, and smaller community-centered institutions. Faubourgs are known for their distinct character, reflecting a blend of local traditions and influences specific to the surrounding region.
The term "faubourg" also carries a connotation of a place with a lower social standing or economic status compared to the central, more affluent parts of the city. Due to its location outside the city's fortified walls, a faubourg was traditionally less developed and lacked some of the amenities and infrastructure found in the city center. However, with the process of urbanization and the expansion of cities, many faubourgs have gradually become integrated into the urban fabric, undergoing significant transformations and often gaining improved access to services and facilities. Today, the term "faubourg" is sometimes used to evoke a historical charm or a sense of nostalgia associated with the old neighborhoods and their distinctive cultural heritage.
A suburb.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "faubourg" originated from Old French and comes from the combination of two words. The first part, "fau", is derived from the Latin word "fallum" which means "outskirts" or "beyond". The second part, "bourg", comes from the Latin word "burgus" which means "fortress" or "town". In Old French, "faubourg" referred to a district or suburb located outside the fortress walls of a city. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to simply mean a neighborhood or district situated outside the city center.
