cantonement

Cantonement refers to the practice of housing soldiers in temporary or permanent quarters, often distinct from their usual barracks. Historically, this involved the provision of lodgings and provisions by civilian populations or designated areas. The term originates from the French word "canton," meaning a district or division, and can also refer to the number of soldiers a town or district was obliged to quarter.

During wartime, cantonments were established to house large numbers of troops, especially during periods of mobilization or when armies were not actively engaged in combat. These camps could be temporary, constructed from tents and rudimentary shelters, or more permanent, featuring wooden barracks and infrastructure. The establishment of cantonments often placed a significant burden on local resources and communities.

In a broader sense, cantonement can also describe the compulsory housing of troops within a town or city, either in existing buildings or purpose-built facilities. This practice was common in many European armies throughout history. The term has largely fallen out of common military usage, replaced by terms like "base," "camp," or "garrison," but the underlying concept of housing troops in designated areas remains a fundamental aspect of military logistics and operations.