Definition

Proper noun A zone consisting of a strip of land across the Isthmus of Panama that contains the Panama Canal. It refers to the historical U.S.-administered territory that surrounded and managed the canal.

Usage

The term "Panama Canal Zone" is used historically to refer to the specific administrative area. * The Panama Canal Zone was governed by the United States from 1903 to 1979. * Many American civilians and military personnel lived and worked in the Panama Canal Zone.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in historical, political, and geographical contexts to discuss U.S. foreign policy, sovereignty, and the 1977 Torrijos–Carter Treaties, which began the process of transferring control to Panama.
• It can be abbreviated informally as "the Canal Zone" when the context is clear.
  • My grandfather was stationed in the Canal Zone during the 1960s.

Variants and Related Words

• Canal Zone (noun): A common shortened form of "Panama Canal Zone."
• Panama Canal (proper noun): The specific waterway itself, located within the former zone.

Synonyms

• (Historical) U.S. Canal Zone
• (Historical) Canal Zone

Notes on Meaning

• The "Panama Canal Zone" was a distinct political entity, not simply the geographical area around the canal. Its status changed definitively with the full transfer of canal administration to Panama on December 31, 1999.
• The term is now primarily historical. The area is fully integrated into the Republic of Panama.

Noun

1. a zone consisting of a strip of land across the Isthmus of Panama that contains the Panama Canal