What does village proper mean?

"Village proper" is a term used to distinguish the main core of a village from its surrounding areas. It typically refers to the oldest and most densely populated part of the village, often containing the historical center, key infrastructure like the church, school, and marketplace, and the main residential areas.

Here's a breakdown:

* Village: A small, rural community.

* Proper: In this context, it means "strictly speaking" or "in the truest sense."

* Village proper: The central, historical, and most developed section of the village.

Think of it like a city's downtown area versus its suburbs. The village proper is the heart and soul of the village, while the surrounding areas might include farms, forests, or newer housing developments.

Here are some examples of how "village proper" might be used:

* "The village proper is home to a beautiful historic church, dating back to the 18th century."

* "The new housing development is located just outside the village proper."

* "The village proper is known for its charming cobbled streets and traditional architecture."

By using "village proper," you're emphasizing that you're referring to the main, central part of the village, rather than its periphery.