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Populated: meaning, definitions and examples

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populated

 

[ˈpɒpjʊleɪtɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

area

having inhabitants or frequent visitors

Synonyms

crowded, inhabited, thickly settled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
populated

Used to describe a place where people live. It is generally neutral and does not imply whether it is crowded or not.

  • New York City is one of the most populated cities in the United States
inhabited

Used to indicate that a place has people living in it, without specifying how many. It is often used in contrast to uninhabited places.

  • The island has been inhabited for thousands of years
crowded

Used to describe a place that is overly filled with people, often implying discomfort or a lack of space.

  • The subway was so crowded this morning that I couldn't find a seat
thickly settled

Used to describe areas where people live close together, often in residential neighborhoods. It can imply a higher density than 'populated' but less discomfort than 'crowded'.

  • The neighborhood is thickly settled with small houses and apartment buildings

Examples of usage

  • The most densely populated areas are usually found in urban centers.
  • The island is densely populated with tourists during the summer months.
Context #2 | Verb

populate

to inhabit or occupy

Synonyms

inhabit, occupy, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
populated

Used when describing the number of people living in a certain area. Generally neutral, often used in statistical or descriptive contexts.

  • The city is densely populated.
  • This region is populated by a diverse mix of people.
inhabit

Used to describe where people or animals live. Often formal and can be used in both scientific and everyday situations.

  • Various species of birds inhabit this forest.
  • Many people inhabit the coastal areas.
settle

Suggests the process of making a place your home, especially for the first time. Can carry historical or personal connotations.

  • Many people initially settle near rivers.
  • They decided to settle in a small town.
occupy

Used when discussing who or what is filling a space. Can be neutral but may also imply temporary residence or a focus on physical space. Slightly more formal.

  • Soldiers occupy the fort.
  • He permanently occupies the corner office.

Examples of usage

  • The settlers began to populate the newly discovered land.
  • The government is working on a plan to populate rural areas.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'populated' comes from the Latin root 'populatus,' which means 'to make populous' or 'to fill with people.'
  • It was first used in the English language around the late 15th century, reflecting changes in society and urban growth.
  • The more common forms like 'population' and 'populate' also stem from this Latin origin, showing a connection to numbers of people.

Cultural Significance

  • Populated areas often reflect cultural diversity, showcasing different languages, foods, and traditions coexisting together.
  • Urban centers provide social and economic opportunities, often drawing people from rural areas, leading to a rich tapestry of cultures.
  • High population density can also lead to challenges, such as crowded living conditions and the need for efficient public services.

Science

  • In ecology, the concept of 'population' extends beyond humans to animals and plants, impacting ecosystems and biodiversity.
  • Species population densities can indicate environmental health, as certain populations thrive or decline based on surrounding conditions.
  • Studies of populated regions help scientists understand urban ecology, such as how wildlife adapts to city environments.

Sociology

  • The study of populated areas provides insights into social interactions and how communities thrive or struggle.
  • Demographers analyze population trends to predict future growth, helping governments plan for housing, transportation, and services.
  • Populated regions often influence political landscapes, as voting demographics may shift based on population changes.

Geography

  • Cities like Tokyo and New York are among the world's most populated, influencing global economics and culture.
  • Maps showing population density use colors or shading to depict how many people live in different areas, providing visual insights into urbanization.
  • Rural areas, in contrast, are often sparsely populated, which can lead to unique cultural identities and ways of life.

Translations

Translations of the word "populated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 povoado

🇮🇳 जनसंख्या वाला

🇩🇪 bevölkert

🇮🇩 padat penduduk

🇺🇦 заселений

🇵🇱 zaludniony

🇯🇵 人口が多い

🇫🇷 peuplé

🇪🇸 poblado

🇹🇷 nüfuslu

🇰🇷 인구가 많은

🇸🇦 مكتظ بالسكان

🇨🇿 zalidněný

🇸🇰 zaludnený

🇨🇳 人口稠密的

🇸🇮 naseljen

🇮🇸 þéttbýlt

🇰🇿 халық тығыз орналасқан

🇬🇪 მოსახლეობით დასახლებული

🇦🇿 əhali sıx yerləşmiş

🇲🇽 poblado

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,153 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.