PLAY STREET Meaning and
Definition
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Play street refers to a designated area within a residential neighborhood that is temporarily closed to through traffic for the purpose of providing a safe and spacious environment for recreational activities, particularly for children. This concept promotes outdoor play, social interaction, and community bonding. Play streets are typically set up during specific hours or days, usually on weekends or holidays, when vehicular access is restricted to allow children to engage in various recreational pursuits.
These designated play streets are often marked with signs or barriers at the entry points to prevent traffic from entering. The closures may span a single block or an entire street network, depending on the size and needs of the community. By eliminating the presence of vehicles, play streets aim to create safe spaces for children to ride bicycles, roller skate, play ball games, hopscotch, draw with sidewalk chalk, and engage in countless other playful activities.
Play streets have several benefits. They provide opportunities for physical activity and exercise, facilitate active play, and promote independence among children. They also foster social connections and community engagement, as neighbors come together to organize, support, and participate in the activities. Play streets encourage environmental consciousness by emphasizing the use of public space for recreational purposes rather than for transportation. Moreover, they contribute to reducing traffic accidents and promote a healthier lifestyle for children who may not have access to large yards or safe outdoor spaces.
In summary, a play street refers to a designated, temporarily closed-off area within a residential neighborhood that allows children to play and engage in recreational activities in a safe and car-free environment.
Etymology of PLAY STREET
The word "play street" is a phrase composed of the noun "play" and the noun "street".
The noun "play" originated from the Old English word "pleg(i)an" which meant "to exercise, frolic, or move rapidly". It eventually evolved to mean "to engage in games or sport for enjoyment or recreation". The word "play" has been used in this context since the 13th century.
The word "street" can be traced back to the Old English word "stræt" or "stræte" which referred to a paved road or a public road in a town or city. It is related to the Old High German word "strāza" and the Old Norse word "stǫt".
