Urban Sprawl

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

The uncontrolled or poorly planned outward expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural or undeveloped land, typically characterized by low-density residential development, car dependency, and the fragmentation of open spaces. Urban sprawl is associated with increased commute times, loss of biodiversity, and greater carbon emissions.

Examples

• Environmental advocates blamed urban sprawl for the destruction of wetlands on the city's edge.
• Suburban zoning laws encouraged urban sprawl throughout the post-war decades.