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Sprawl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sprawl

[sprawl ]

Definitions

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Urban Development

  • In urban planning, sprawl refers to the spread of a city into rural areas, often leading to increased dependence on cars.
  • Suburban sprawl often arises from people moving to the outskirts for cheaper housing, influencing the layout and traffic patterns of cities.

Environmental Impact

  • Sprawl can lead to habitat destruction, as natural areas are cleared to make way for new developments.
  • The expansion of cities often results in increased pollution and traffic congestion, making sustainability a major concern.

Art and Culture

  • In art, sprawl can describe an expansive style where the artist uses a lot of space and multiple elements, reflecting chaotic beauty.
  • Literature sometimes uses sprawl to represent characters' messy lives, emphasizing disorganization in their thoughts and surroundings.

Psychology

  • The idea of sprawl is often metaphorically related to feelings of being overwhelmed or lost due to too many commitments or distractions.
  • Research shows that environments that are spread-out can contribute to mental fatigue, affecting decision-making.

Origin of 'sprawl'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sprawl' comes from the early 19th century, originally describing how someone might awkwardly stretch out on the ground.
  • It combines the old English word 'spraegen,' which means 'to stretch out.'

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.