Ghetto: meaning, definitions and examples

🏚️

Add to dictionary

ghetto

[ˈɡɛtoʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

urban culture

A ghetto is a part of a city, especially a slum area, occupied by a minority group or groups.

Synonyms

barrio, shantytown, slum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ghetto	Ghetto is often used to describe a part of a city where a minority group lives, typically because of social, legal, or economic pressure. It can have a negative connotation and should be used carefully to avoid offending people. She grew up in the ghetto and faced many challenges. The mayor promised to improve living conditions in the ghetto.
slum	Slum is used to describe a densely populated urban area characterized by substandard housing and squalor. It usually conveys a negative impression and is often associated with poverty and neglect. The slum was plagued by high crime rates and poor sanitation. Efforts are being made to redevelop the slum into a safer community.
barrio	Barrio is a Spanish word used to describe a neighborhood, often in a Spanish-speaking country or community, that has a distinct cultural identity. It may or may not imply poorer conditions. They spent the afternoon exploring the colorful barrio. She moved to the barrio to be closer to her family.
shantytown	Shantytown refers to an area where people live in makeshift, temporary housing, often lacking essential services and infrastructure. It carries a clear implication of poverty. The shantytown was crowded and the living conditions were tough. Authorities are working to provide better housing for the residents of the shantytown.

Examples of usage

She grew up in a tough ghetto in Chicago.
The neighborhood was considered a dangerous ghetto.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

informal

Characteristic of a ghetto, especially in being run-down or squalid.

Examples of usage

The apartment had a ghetto vibe to it.
The store sold ghetto fashion.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'ghetto' originally referred to the segregated Jewish districts in Europe during the Middle Ages.
It comes from the Venetian word 'ghetto', which referred to an area where foundries were established in the 15th century.
In Italy, the word 'ghetto' used to describe areas where Jewish communities were forced to live under restrictions.

Historical Context

During World War II, the term became widely known as Nazis forced Jews into overcrowded ghettos before deportation.
In the U.S., the Great Migration saw African Americans moving into urban ghettos, influenced by segregation and economic disparity.
Urban renewal projects in the 20th century often failed to consider the needs of ghetto residents, leading to further decline and displacement.

Pop Culture

The word 'ghetto' has appeared in music genres like hip hop and rap, often symbolizing resilience and community.
Many movies portray ghetto life, tackling themes of struggle, aspiration, and cultural identity.
Fashion trends associated with ghetto culture, particularly in streetwear, have permeated mainstream style, illustrating cultural influence.

Sociology

Sociologists study ghettos to understand urban poverty, segregation, and the cultural dynamics within marginalized communities.
Ghettos can form due to systemic inequalities, with factors like employment opportunities, education, and housing policies playing significant roles.
Community organizations often arise within ghettos to support residents and advocate for change.

Translations

Translations of the word "ghetto" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gueto

🇮🇳 घेटो

🇩🇪 Ghetto

🇮🇩 ghetto

🇺🇦 гетто

🇵🇱 getto

🇯🇵 ゲットー

🇫🇷 ghetto

🇪🇸 gueto

🇹🇷 getto

🇰🇷 게토

🇸🇦 غيتو

🇨🇿 ghetto

🇸🇰 ghetto

🇨🇳 贫民区

🇸🇮 getto

🇮🇸 getó

🇰🇿 гетто

🇬🇪 გეტო

🇦🇿 getto

🇲🇽 gueto

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,637, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13634 insistent
13635 bleaching
13636 constellation
13637 ghetto
13638 glide
13639 martyrdom
13640 goodly
...