an arrondissement in the department of Hérault, in France. It extends over 250 square miles, and contains twelve cantons, ninety-seven communes, and 107,804 inhabitants. The capital, a city of the same name, considered one of the most beautiful spots in the kingdom, is elevated along the banks of the Orce. It contains a population of 14,360 persons, employed chiefly in the silk trade, and in cultivating vines, almonds, olives, and the other fruits of a southern climate. Long. 3. 6. 45. E. Lat. 43. 20. 41. N.