an area just beyond the outer limits of satisfactory reception, characterized by a weak and possibly unstable signal
Word origin
[1945–50]This word is first recorded in the period 1945–50. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: beeper, individual medley, regression analysis, shootout, taxi squad
Examples of 'fringe area' in a sentence
fringe area
That's not to say that all fringe areas have the same potential.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Fringe areas hold their own as a rival destination to the city.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
Some fringe areas are fighting back hard.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Yet the fringe areas held their own, with an average rise of 17%.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
Activity in prime fringe areas may increase in the spring if prices come down to acceptable levels.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
Fringe areas have managed a 2% increase — still better than the national average, which is a 6% drop.