City

Definition

City is a noun that refers to a large and permanent human settlement characterized by a high population density and infrastructure supporting residential, commercial, and cultural activities. Cities typically serve as major centers for trade, governance, and cultural exchange.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪti/
• Respelling: SIT-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪti/
• Respelling: SIT-ee

Etymology

The word "city" originates from the Latin "civitas," meaning "citizenship" or "community of citizens," which referred to a collective body of people in a settled area. It came into Old French as "cité" and was adopted into Middle English with its current meaning.

Derivatives

• Citified (adjective)
• Citizen (noun)
• Citizenship (noun)
• Cityscape (noun)
• Citywide (adjective)

Synonyms

• Metropolis
• Municipality
• Urban area

Antonyms

• Village
• Hamlet
• Countryside

Usage

The term "city" is commonly used to describe a densely populated area with advanced infrastructure, where people live and work. For example, "New York City is known for its skyscrapers," or "The city council approved the new development."

Related Terms

• Metropolis: A large and densely populated city, often a major economic and cultural center.
• Urbanization: The process by which areas become more city-like and populated.
• Municipality: A city or town with its own local government.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large and permanent human settlement: Refers to an area with a high population density, infrastructure, and facilities to support various human activities.
  • Example: "London is one of the most famous cities in the world."
• An area governed as a municipality: Used to refer to a place with its own local government.
  • Example: "The city council is responsible for managing public services."
• The inhabitants or residents of a city: Can refer collectively to the people living in a city.
  • Example: "The city turned out to celebrate the festival."