n. 1 the extent or measure of a surface (over a large area; 3 acres in area; the area of a triangle). 2 a region or tract (the southern area). 3 a space allocated for a specific purpose (dining area; camping area). 4 the scope or range of an activity or study. 5 US a space below ground level in front of the basement of a building. 6 (prec. by the) Football = penalty area. areal adj.
[ L, = vacant piece of level ground ]