Meaning & Definition of Sprawl in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To spread out over a large area in a messy or irregular way.

  Example Sentence: The town began to sprawl as more developers moved in.

• Definition: To sit or lie in a relaxed position with the limbs spread out.

  Example Sentence: He sprawled on the couch after a long day at work.

• Definition: Urban sprawl refers to the expansion of a city into suburban areas, often characterized by low-density residential developments.

  Example Sentence: Urban sprawl has led to increased traffic congestion and loss of green space.

Etymology

Origin: From Middle English 'sprawlen', possibly imitative of movement.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• urban sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas.
• sprawling cities: Cities that have grown larger in area in an unplanned manner.
• sprawl out: To lie or sit with limbs spread out.

Translations

• Spanish: desparramarse

• French: étalement

• German: Ausbreitung

• Russian: разрастание

Related Words

• expansion: The act of increasing in size, number, or range.

• development: The process of developing or being developed, such as urban development.

Slang Meanings of sprawl

• Meaning: Relaxed position, often used in informal settings.

  Example Sentence: I just want to sprawl out on the beach and enjoy the sun.

• Meaning: Disorganized or chaotic growth, usually referring to cities.

  Example Sentence: The sprawl around here is getting out of hand with all the new housing projects.