Definition

Proper noun: * A neighborhood in Manhattan, New York City: "South of Houston" is the proper name for a specific district in the southwestern part of the borough of Manhattan, New York City. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including shops, restaurants, art galleries, and artists' studios.

Usage

• "South of Houston" functions exclusively as a proper noun, referring to the specific neighborhood. It is often abbreviated as SoHo.
• It is used to denote a geographic location with distinct cultural and commercial characteristics.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term is historically significant as it describes the area's location relative to Houston Street. The name differentiates it from areas like "North of Houston" (NoHo).
• In urban planning and real estate contexts, "south of Houston" can be used descriptively to mean any area geographically south of Houston Street, but as a proper noun, it refers specifically to the defined historic district.

Variants and Related Words

• SoHo: The common and official abbreviation for the South of Houston neighborhood.
• Houston Street: The major east-west street that forms the northern border of the SoHo district. (Note: Pronounced "HOW-ston" in New York City, not like the city in Texas).

Synonyms

• SoHo district
• The Cast-Iron Historic District (referring to its architectural style)

Notes

• "South of Houston" is a fixed compound proper noun. The individual words "south," "of," and "Houston" carry their standard meanings, but together they form the specific name of the place.
• It is a classic example of how New York City neighborhood names are often derived from their location (e.g., TriBeCa for "Triangle Below Canal Street").

Noun

1. a district in southwestern Manhattan noted for its shops and restaurants and galleries and artist's lofts