Shantytown: meaning, definitions and examples

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shantytown

[ˈʃæntiˌtaʊn ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

urban

A shantytown is a deprived area on the outskirts of a town consisting of makeshift dwellings, typically constructed from materials such as corrugated iron and wood.

Synonyms

ghetto, informal settlement, slum.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shantytown	Used to describe a poorly built area on the outskirts of a city, where many people live in makeshift housing. The edge of the city was lined with a sprawling shantytown Despite the harsh living conditions, the residents of the shantytown formed a close-knit community
slum	Refers to a densely populated urban area characterized by substandard housing and squalor. Often used when discussing poverty and poor living conditions. The NGO is working to provide clean water and sanitation facilities in the city's slums Many families in the slum struggle to survive on a daily basis
ghetto	Often used to describe an area where a specific minority group is segregated and lives in poverty. It can have a negative connotation due to its historical and social implications. She grew up in a ghetto but managed to overcome many obstacles to achieve success The ghetto was characterized by overcrowded apartments and lack of resources
informal settlement	A neutral, technical term used to describe areas where housing is not legally recognized by the authorities. It emphasizes the lack of formal housing planning and infrastructure. The government's new policy aims to improve living conditions in informal settlements Residents of informal settlements often face difficulties accessing basic services

Examples of usage

The shantytown was a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers in the city center.
Many families in the shantytown lacked access to basic amenities like clean water and electricity.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'shantytown' arose in the 19th century during the construction of cities where people built temporary homes.
Many shantytowns emerged during the Great Depression in the United States as a response to homelessness.
Shantytowns are often found near urban areas, highlighting the disparity between wealth and poverty in cities.

Sociology

Shantytowns typically develop due to rapid urbanization and lack of affordable housing.
Residents often face challenges like limited access to clean water, sanitation, and public services.
These communities can foster resilience as residents create support networks and develop informal economies.

Cultural Representation

Shantytowns are depicted in various films and literature, often showcasing struggles, dreams, and the human spirit.
In art, shantytowns symbolize social inequality and evoke empathy for those living in poverty.
Musical genres like reggae and hip-hop often reference shantytowns, reflecting the experiences of marginalized communities.

Geography

Shantytowns are prevalent worldwide, with notable examples in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Mumbai, and Nairobi.
In some places, shantytowns are known as 'favelas' or 'barracas,' each culture providing unique adaptations for living.

Economics

People in shantytowns often engage in informal economies such as street vending or craft production, making a living without formal employment.
Government efforts to improve living conditions may lead to conflicts over land rights and displacement of residents.

Translations

Translations of the word "shantytown" in other languages:

🇵🇹 favela

🇮🇳 झुग्गी बस्ती (jhuggi basti)

🇩🇪 Elendsviertel

🇮🇩 perkampungan kumuh

🇺🇦 нетрі

🇵🇱 dzielnica nędzy

🇯🇵 スラム街 (suramu-gai)

🇫🇷 bidonville

🇪🇸 barrio de chabolas

🇹🇷 gecekondu bölgesi

🇰🇷 빈민가 (binminga)

🇸🇦 حي فقير (hay faqeer)

🇨🇿 chudinská čtvrť

🇸🇰 chudobná štvrť

🇨🇳 贫民窟 (pínmínkū)

🇸🇮 barakarsko naselje

🇮🇸 fátækrahverfi

🇰🇿 тұрғын үй ауданы (turghyn üy audany)

🇬🇪 ღარიბი უბანი (gharibi ubani)

🇦🇿 gecəqondu məhəlləsi

🇲🇽 barrio de chabolas