urban sprawl

noun

: the spreading of urban developments (such as houses and shopping centers) on undeveloped land near a city

Examples of urban sprawl in a Sentence

efforts to stop urban sprawl
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Established in 2010 by seven friends from southeastern England, the group has earned international fame and fortune by turning urban sprawl into the ultimate obstacle courses. Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 9 Mar. 2025 Orenstein emphasized the need to minimize urban sprawl in fire-prone areas, while also addressing the long-term challenges posed by climate change. Sharon Udasin, The Hill, 17 Feb. 2025 The blazes that began in the hilltop communities surrounding Los Angeles are part of a growing trend of increasingly destructive wildfires fueled by climate change, urban sprawl and inadequate resources for firefighting. John Mac Ghlionn, Newsweek, 14 Jan. 2025 The endangered Florida panther faces the dual threats of urban sprawl and increased traffic In 2024, 36 panther deaths were recorded by state wildlife officials, which was the most since 2016. Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for urban sprawl

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of urban sprawl was in 1934

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Urban sprawl.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/urban%20sprawl. Accessed 1 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

urban sprawl

noun
: the spreading of urban structures into areas surrounding a city

More from Merriam-Webster on urban sprawl

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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