Meaning & Definition of word "Downtown"

Downtown

/ˈdaʊnˌtaʊn/

noun:

  • 1. The central business district of a city, typically characterized by a concentration of retail shops, offices, and cultural institutions.
    • Example: The company decided to move its headquarters to downtown to be closer to its clients.
  • 2. An area in a city where the buildings and businesses are more densely located, often vibrant and heavily trafficked.
    • Example: On weekends, downtown is filled with people enjoying the parks and restaurants.

adverb:

  • 1. Toward or in the central part of a city.
    • Example: They drove downtown to attend the concert.
  • 2. In the direction of the downtown area.
    • Example: She walked downtown to meet her friend for lunch.

Etymology

Combining 'down' (to a lower place) and 'town' (a human settlement), originally referring to the area lower than the main town center.

Common Phrases and Expressions

downtown area:

The portion of a city where most of the business activities occur.

downtown vibes:

The atmosphere or feeling associated with the central part of a city.

Related Words

uptown:

The residential or less commercial areas of a city, typically located further from the central business district.

midtown:

The area in a city that is between downtown and uptown, often a mix of commercial and residential.

downtowner:

A term for a person living or working downtown.

Slang Meanings of downtown

Meaning: A popular hangout spot in the city.

Example Sentence: Let's meet up downtown for drinks after work.

Meaning: Referring to a more lively and urban lifestyle.

Example Sentence: She loves the downtown scene, filled with bars and entertainment.