What is the etymology of the word "Bowery"?

Prepare for the New York City Sightseeing Guide License Exam. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions, each with helpful hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

The correct choice, derived from Dutch, indicates that the word "Bowery" originates from "Bouwerij," which translates to "farm." New York City's Bowery neighborhood was initially a farming area outside the early settlement of New Amsterdam. As the city grew, the area evolved from its agricultural roots, but the name has remained a reflection of its history.

The other options do not accurately capture the historical context or linguistic origin of "Bowery." For instance, Latin and French do not pertain to the word's development or local significance in relation to the Dutch influence on early New York. English for "garden" also fails to convey the agricultural connotation that "Bowery" still holds, making the Dutch origin the most relevant and historically accurate choice.

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