Suburbanite: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'suburbanite' originated from 'suburb', with roots in Latin 'suburbium', meaning 'under the city'.
• The word has been in use since the early 20th century, coinciding with the growth of suburban areas.
• It combines 'sub-' meaning 'below' or 'under', and 'urban', which relates to cities.

Historical Origins

• Suburbs began to gain popularity in the late 19th century, as people sought escape from overcrowded cities.
• Post-World War II America saw a massive suburban boom, as returning soldiers took advantage of the GI Bill to purchase homes.
• The development of the automobile greatly influenced suburban growth, making it easier to commute to jobs in urban centers.

Cultural Significance

• In many Western cultures, suburban living is associated with the 'American Dream', symbolizing home ownership and family life.
• Cultural representations often include ideas of safety, community, and middle-class values.
• The suburban lifestyle has been critiqued in literature and media for promoting conformity and materialism.

Pop Culture

• Movies and TV shows like 'The Brady Bunch' and 'Desperate Housewives' have depicted suburban life, often highlighting its quirks.
• Music genres like surf rock in the 1960s celebrated the fun and leisure often associated with suburban living.
• Several books, including 'Suburban Guerillas', explore the clash between suburban life and alternative lifestyles.

Environmental Impact

• Suburban development typically leads to increased reliance on cars, contributing to environmental issues like air pollution.
• The expansion of suburbs has often involved land use changes, leading to loss of natural habitats and increased urban sprawl.
• Green movement initiatives are pushing for more sustainable suburban design, including walkable communities and public transport.

Ranking #38,722, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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