Cul-de-Sac
A short street or lane that is closed at one end with a circular turnaround area, creating a dead-end residential street with limited through traffic. Properties on cul-de-sacs typically face the circular end or line the short street leading to it.
Example
“The house on the cul-de-sac was perfect for families with young children since there was minimal through traffic.”
Memory Tip
Cul-de-sac sounds like 'cool-de-sack' - imagine a cool sack (bag) that's closed at the bottom, just like these streets.
Why It Matters
Cul-de-sac properties often command premium prices due to reduced traffic, increased safety for children, and enhanced privacy, making them highly desirable for families.
Common Misconception
Some buyers assume all cul-de-sac homes have large yards, but lot sizes vary just like any other street configuration.
In Practice
A family chooses a home on a cul-de-sac specifically because their young children can play safely in the street with minimal risk from passing cars, and they pay 5% more than comparable homes on through streets.
Etymology
From French 'cul-de-sac' literally meaning 'bottom of the bag' - describing a street that's closed at one end like the bottom of a bag.
Common Misspellings
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