A street or passage closed at one end; a dead-end street.

Origin: The term 'cul-de-sac' originates from French, where 'cul' means 'bottom' or 'backside' and 'sac' means 'bag'. The phrase literally translates to 'bottom of the bag', referring to a street that ends without an outlet. The term was borrowed into English in the late 18th century.Historical and Cultural Context: The first known use of 'cul-de-sac' in English dates back to the 1730s. It was used to describe dead-end streets in urban planning, especially in Paris, where many such streets existed.Evolution: The term has remained consistent in both form and meaning since its adoption into English. It is used in many English-speaking countries to describe residential streets that provide privacy and reduced traffic.Modern Relevance: Today, 'cul-de-sac' is a common term in real estate and urban planning, often associated with suburban neighborhoods. It retains its original meaning and is used to denote quiet, family-friendly areas.

In some urban planning models, cul-de-sacs are designed to reduce traffic flow, creating safer environments for children to play and reducing noise pollution.