Definition of village

The word "village" has its origins in the Old French word "ville," meaning "town" or "city." This, in turn, stems from the Latin word "villa," which referred to a farm or estate, but also occasionally a small town or settlement. The Latin "villa" is thought to have been derived from the word "villare," which meant "to inhabit" or "to farm." As the French language developed, "ville" evolved to encompass not only urban areas but also smaller rural settlements. When the Norman Conquest of England brought French language and culture to the British Isles, the word "ville" was borrowed into Middle English as "village." Over time, the meaning of the word has remained relatively consistent, describing a small, usually rural, community or settlement. Today, the word "village" is used in many languages to refer to a wide range of small settlements, from tiny hamlets to relatively large towns.