Neighborhood Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ก
neighborhood
[หneษชbษrhสd ]
Definitions
in a community
A neighborhood is a specific geographic area within a community that people live in and interact with one another. It often has its unique characteristics, such as the type of housing, demographics, and amenities available.
Synonyms
community, district, vicinity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| neighborhood |
This word is often used to describe a small area within a town or city where people live. It's most commonly applied to residential areas and implies a sense of familiarity and locality.
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| community |
This term is broader and refers to a group of people who live in the same area or share common interests or values. It emphasizes social connections and collective activities.
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| district |
Use this word when referring to a specifically designated area within a city or town, often for administrative or official purposes. Districts can be residential, commercial, or defined by other particular characteristics.
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| vicinity |
This word is used to talk about the general area surrounding a specific location. It is often used in more formal or technical contexts and isnโt as closely linked to social connections.
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Examples of usage
- The neighborhood where I live is known for its friendly residents.
- Our neighborhood has a community park where kids can play.
in a social context
A neighborhood can also refer to a social environment or group of people who share similar interests or characteristics. It can be a supportive network where individuals feel a sense of belonging.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| neighborhood |
Use 'neighborhood' when referring to the area or district where you live, especially when talking about the people living near you.
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| community |
Use 'community' when talking about a larger group of people who live in the same area, or share religion, race, or interest. It emphasizes a sense of belonging and collective identity.
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| circle |
Use 'circle' when referring to a group of people who are united by a common interest, activity, or profession. It often implies a more intimate or exclusive group.
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| group |
Use 'group' when referring to any collection of individuals who are gathered together for a common purpose. It is more general and can be applied in various contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She found her neighborhood of artists to be very inspiring.
- The online community served as a virtual neighborhood for its members.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In various cultures, neighbors often play crucial roles in everyday life, acting as extensions of family or community support systems.
- Neighborhood associations are common, fostering community involvement and organizing events, showing the importance of collaboration among residents.
- Festivals and block parties are often held in neighborhoods, celebrating local culture and bringing residents together.
Urban Planning
- The concept of a neighborhood is fundamental in urban planning, influencing how cities are designed for community interaction and accessibility.
- Mixed-use neighborhoods combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, promoting walkability and a sense of belonging.
- The 20-minute neighborhood is a modern urban design trend where residents can access essential services within a 20-minute walk.
Psychology
- Living in a supportive neighborhood can improve mental health, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting well-being.
- Research shows children who grow up in positive neighborhoods often have better social skills and academic success due to supportive peer interactions.
- The sense of belonging to a neighborhood can foster a shared identity, contributing to community pride and civic engagement.
Literature and Media
- Many stories and movies prominently feature neighborhoods, often highlighting themes of friendship, conflict, and community resilience.
- Books like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' explore the intricacies of neighborhood dynamics and moral lessons learned from community interactions.
- Television series often depict neighborhoods as microcosms of society, exploring diverse relationships and cultures through characters' interactions.
Origin of 'neighborhood'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'neighborhood' comes from the Old English 'neahber', which means 'near dweller', highlighting the idea of living close.
- In the 15th century, the word began to describe both the people living nearby and the area they inhabit.
- The root 'neighbor' relates to the Latin word 'neighbour', which emphasizes the community aspect of living near others.
The word 'neighborhood' originated from the Middle English word 'neighbo(u)rred', which combines 'neighbo(u)r' (from Old English 'neahgebur', meaning 'nigh' or 'near' + 'gebur', meaning 'dweller') with the suffix '-red' denoting condition or quality. The concept of neighborhoods has evolved over time, reflecting changes in community structures and social interactions.