General:
* A town or district that has its own local government. This is a broad definition, and many boroughs have their own unique structures and responsibilities.
* A subdivision of a larger city. This is common in the United States, especially in New York City, where boroughs are essentially distinct neighborhoods with their own local government.
Specific to certain locations:
* In England and Wales: A borough is a type of local government area with a council and a mayor. Boroughs can be either unitary authorities (responsible for all local services) or non-unitary authorities (sharing some responsibilities with a county council).
* In New York City: The five boroughs are Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Each borough has its own unique character and history.
* In the United States: The term "borough" is also used in some other areas, such as Pennsylvania, Alaska, and some New England states. The exact meaning can vary, but it generally refers to a town or township with its own local government.
To understand the meaning of "borough" in a specific context, it's essential to consider the location and the specific definition being used.
It's also important to note that the term "borough" can be used informally to refer to any neighborhood or district, even if it doesn't have its own local government.