urban sprawl

noun

: the spreading of urban developments (such as houses and shopping centers) on undeveloped land near a city

Examples of urban sprawl in a Sentence

efforts to stop urban sprawl
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The state’s land use laws, which limit urban sprawl, also contribute to housing scarcity, further pushing up prices. Samuel Burke, Fortune, 29 Oct. 2024 Cities and counties must soon consider the impact of development on wildlife connectivity in their land-use plans following the passage of a law intended to promote safe travel across habitat fragmented by urban sprawl and freeways. Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2024 Focusing on urban density, retrofits promote efficient land use and help prevent urban sprawl, thereby protecting ecosystems. Kathleen Abbott, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 Subways cater to high-density centers, while cars, including autonomous vehicles, suit low-density urban sprawl. Harry Booth, TIME, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for urban sprawl 

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of urban sprawl was in 1934

Dictionary Entries Near urban sprawl

Cite this Entry

“Urban sprawl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/urban%20sprawl. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

urban sprawl

noun
: the spreading of urban structures into areas surrounding a city

More from Merriam-Webster on urban sprawl

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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