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Sprawl: meaning, definitions and examples

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sprawl

 

[ sprawl ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

urban development

Sprawl refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land. This can lead to a range of issues including increased traffic, loss of green space, and environmental degradation. Urban sprawl often occurs due to a combination of population growth and the desire for larger living spaces.

Synonyms

distribution, expansion, growth, spread

Examples of usage

  • The city's sprawl extended far beyond its original boundaries.
  • Efforts to manage sprawl have become a priority for local governments.
  • The environmental impact of urban sprawl is a significant concern.
  • Many cities are adopting measures to combat sprawl by promoting public transportation.
Context #2 | Verb

to spread out

To sprawl means to spread out in an ungainly or irregular manner. This term can refer to a person spreading their limbs or to an area becoming disorganized and widespread.

Synonyms

extend, lie down, spread, stretch out

Examples of usage

  • He sprawled on the couch after a long day at work.
  • The children sprawled across the grass to enjoy the sunny day.
  • The papers were sprawled across the desk, making it difficult to find anything.
  • She found him sprawled out on the floor, fast asleep.

Translations

Translations of the word "sprawl" in other languages:

🇵🇹 espalhamento

🇮🇳 फैलाव

🇩🇪 Zersiedelung

🇮🇩 penyebaran

🇺🇦 розростання

🇵🇱 rozprzestrzenienie

🇯🇵 スプロール

🇫🇷 étalement

🇪🇸 expansión

🇹🇷 yayılma

🇰🇷 스프롤

🇸🇦 انتشار

🇨🇿 rozrůstání

🇸🇰 rozširovanie

🇨🇳 蔓延

🇸🇮 razpršitev

🇮🇸 útbreiðsla

🇰🇿 таралым

🇬🇪 გაფანტვა

🇦🇿 yayılma

🇲🇽 expansión

Word origin

The word 'sprawl' originated in the early 19th century, deriving from the Middle English term 'spralen,' which meant to 'spread out' or 'to stretch out.' It was originally used to describe the positional arrangement of limbs or bodies in a disorganized fashion. The term evolved in the 20th century to encompass the expansion of urban areas and suburbs, particularly in the United States during the post-World War II population boom. This period saw a significant increase in automobile use, which encouraged the development of neighborhoods further away from urban centers. Over time, 'sprawl' has become associated with negative connotations, as it often implies a lack of planning and environmental consideration in urban development.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,428, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.