Meaning & Definition of word "Slum"

Slum

/slʌm/

noun:

  • 1. A squalid and overcrowded urban area inhabited by poor people.
    • Example: The charity aims to improve living conditions in the slum.
  • 2. A place characterized by neglect, poverty, and poor living conditions.
    • Example: He grew up in a slum where basic amenities were scarce.
  • 3. A densely populated urban area with substandard housing.
    • Example: The government has initiated a project to redevelop the slum into affordable housing.

verb:

  • 1. To live or spend time in a slum.
    • Example: After losing his job, he began to slum in the city's outskirts.

Etymology

Origin unknown, possibly from a combination of 'slump' and 'slang'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

slumdog:

A person living in a slum, often used in a derogatory context.

slum tourism:

Visiting slums for the purpose of observing the environment and the inhabitants.

slum living:

The lifestyle associated with residing in a slum.

Related Words

urban decay:

The process wherein a previously functioning city or part of a city falls into disrepair.

poverty:

The state of being extremely poor.

Slang Meanings of slum

Meaning: To slum it

Example Sentence: He decided to slum it for the weekend instead of staying in a fancy hotel.

Meaning: Slumming

Example Sentence: They were slumming in the cheaper neighborhoods for a more authentic experience.