a town of France, capital of an arrondissement of the same name, in the department of Allier, is situated near the Cher, here crossed by a stone bridge, 39 miles S.W. of Moulins. It is well built on the slope of a hill, the summit of which is crowned by the remains of a castle, formerly a place of much strength. Manufactures of linen, serge, candles, &c., are carried on; and there is some trade in cattle and agricultural produce. Pop. (1851) 8810.