(~s)
1.
If you refer to a place as a ~, you mean that it has a reputation for violence and crime which makes people frightened to go there. (mainly BRIT)
...a subway system whose reputation for violence and lawlessness makes it a ~ for many natives of the city.
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2.
A ~ is a place which is controlled by a group of people who use force to prevent other people from entering it. (mainly BRIT)
The area of the President’s residence is a ~ after six p.m...
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