Arrabal (en. Suburb)
[a-ra-bal]
Meaning & Definition
EnglishSpanish
noun
Peripheral area of a city generally characterized by less urban development.
The suburb of the city has grown a lot in recent years.
El arrabal de la ciudad ha crecido mucho en los últimos años.
Popular or working-class neighborhood located on the outskirts.
I lived in a suburb where the community was very close-knit.
Vivía en un arrabal donde la comunidad era muy unida.
Term that denotes disdain for the lack of culture or refinement of an area.
His comments about the suburb reflect a prejudice towards its inhabitants.
Sus comentarios sobre el arrabal reflejan un prejuicio hacia sus habitantes.
Etymology
From Hispanic Arabic 'arrabal', which comes from Classical Arabic 'rabbāla', meaning 'the outskirts' or 'surroundings'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
leave the suburb
Reflects the idea of improving the quality of life and leaving poverty behind.
salir del arrabal
suburban life
Designates a lifestyle characteristic of less favored areas.
vida de arrabal
Related Words
marginal
Refers to something located on the periphery or regarded as secondary.
marginal
neighborhood
A collection of neighborhoods that generally has a low-income population.
barriada
suburb
Residential area outside the city center, often quieter and more spacious.
suburbio
Slang Meanings
Area of fun and carefree living.
That party was a real suburb, there was music and dancing everywhere.
Esa fiesta fue un verdadero arrabal, había música y baile por todas partes.
Living without economic worries.
With her carefree lifestyle, it seems she lives in the suburb.
Con su estilo de vida despreocupado, parece que vive en el arrabal.