1. The outer areas or outskirts of a place; the surrounding region or neighborhood.
Usage: Usually plural; often used in literary or formal contexts
2. A place or sphere of activity; a domain or field of interest.
Usage: Archaic or literary usage

Examples

• The city's purlieux were rapidly developing with new suburbs.
• He spent his childhood exploring the purlieux of the old estate.
• The restaurant is located in the purlieux of downtown, just beyond the main district.
• She was well-known in the purlieux of academic circles.
• The purlieux of the forest were home to many small creatures.
• They wandered through the purlieux of the ancient town, discovering hidden streets.