VocabDictionary

metropolis

/məˈtrɒp.ə.lɪs/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A very large and densely populated industrial and economic urban center, often the capital or chief city of a country or region.

Example Sentences:
  • Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis that blends ultra-modern skyscrapers with historic temples.
  • People migrate from rural areas to the metropolis in search of better career opportunities.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “metropolis”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek 'metrōpolis', meaning 'mother city' (from 'mētēr' meaning mother + 'polis' meaning city). In the ancient world, it referred to the parent city of a colony. Over time, the meaning shifted to denote any large, bustling capital or major center of population, commerce, and culture.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'metro' (subway system) inside a 'polis' (city)—a subway system is always found in a huge metropolis.

Frequently Asked Questions About “metropolis

1. What is the meaning of “metropolis” in English?

In English, metropolis (noun) is defined as: “A very large and densely populated industrial and economic urban center, often the capital or chief city of a country or region.”.

2. How do you use “metropolis” in a sentence?

Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis that blends ultra-modern skyscrapers with historic temples.

3. What are English synonyms of “metropolis”?

Common synonyms include:megalopolis,city,urban center,capital

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “metropolis”?

Derived from the ancient Greek 'metrōpolis', meaning 'mother city' (from 'mētēr' meaning mother + 'polis' meaning city). In the ancient world, it referred to the parent city of a colony. Over time, the meaning shifted to denote any large, bustling capital or major center of population, commerce, and culture.