obvody

Obvody is a Czech term with several related meanings that depend on the context. In geometry, obvody refer to the boundary length of a plane figure, usually translated as perimeter or circumference. For a circle, obvod equals 2πr; for polygons, the obvod is the sum of the lengths of its sides.

In electronics and electrical engineering, obvody is the plural for obvod, meaning an electrical circuit—a closed path through which electric current can flow. Circuits contain components such as voltage sources, resistors, capacitors, and switches. Technical discussions often distinguish between different circuit configurations, such as series and parallel obvody.

In administrative and public administration contexts, obvod denotes a district or catchment area, such as a police district or electoral district. Terms like obvodní soud (district court) illustrate its use as a territorial boundary that defines jurisdiction or service area. The word can also appear in reference to school, polling, or municipal districts.

Usage and nuance: Although the senses differ, they share the core idea of an enclosing boundary or a closed path that connects or contains parts. The geometric sense emphasizes enclosing length, the electrical sense emphasizes a closed loop for current, and the administrative sense emphasizes territorial boundaries.

See also: Perimeter, Circumference, Electrical circuit, District (administrative).