Megacity: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'megacity' combines the Greek prefix 'mega-', meaning 'great' or 'large', with 'city', highlighting the city's size.
• First used in the 1960s, this term has gained popularity as urban areas grow rapidly.

Global Population

• More than 30 megacities exist worldwide, with cities like Tokyo, Delhi, and Shanghai being the largest.
• Over 500 million people live in megacities, which reflects a significant trend of urbanization and migration from rural areas.

Environmental Impact

• Megacities face unique challenges, such as pollution and waste management, due to their massive populations.
• Rapid urbanization in megacities can lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.

Cultural Significance

• Megacities are often cultural melting pots, where diverse communities coexist, leading to a rich blend of traditions, food, and languages.
• Many global cultural icons, such as fashion, music, and art, originate from megacities, influencing global trends.

Infrastructure Challenges

• Transportation networks in megacities must accommodate millions, leading to projects like subways and high-speed trains to manage traffic.
• Housing is a critical issue; megacities often face shortages, leading to overcrowded living conditions like slums.

At position #40,871, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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• 40871 megacity
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