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Gentrification: meaning, definitions and examples

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gentrification

 

[ ˌdʒɛntrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

urban development

Gentrification is the process by which urban neighborhoods undergo a transformation through the influx of more affluent residents, leading to increased property values and changes in the cultural landscape. While it can revitalize a neighborhood, it often displaces long-standing, lower-income residents who can no longer afford to live there.

Synonyms

redevelopment, reinvestment, revitalization, urban renewal.

Examples of usage

  • The gentrification of the area has led to a rise in coffee shops and boutiques.
  • Many neighborhoods are facing gentrification, making housing unaffordable for locals.
  • Gentrification often results in a cultural shift within the community.

Etymology

The term 'gentrification' was coined by sociologist Ruth Glass in 1964 to describe the changes taking place in certain neighborhoods of London. It combines the word 'gentry', referring to the upper or ruling classes, with the suffix '-fication', which indicates a process of making or becoming. Initially used to highlight the changes witnessed in urban areas that were experiencing an influx of middle-class residents, the term soon spread to describe similar phenomena in cities worldwide, particularly in the United States during the late 20th century. As cities faced increasing interest from wealthier individuals looking for urban living spaces, the concept of gentrification gained traction in discussions surrounding urban planning, social structures, and economic inequality. Today, the effects of gentrification are hotly debated, as communities strive to find a balance between revitalizing their neighborhoods and ensuring that existing residents are not displaced.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,748, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.