An "oblast" is a type of administrative region or province found in several countries, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. Each oblast is governed by a local administration and has its own unique cultural and geographical characteristics. The term is derived from the Russian word for "region" or "area." Oblasts are typically subdivided into smaller units, such as districts or municipalities, which help manage local governance and services. The number of oblasts varies by country; for example, Russia has 85 oblasts, while Ukraine has 24. These regions play a crucial role in the political and economic organization of their respective countries.