megacity
MEG-uh-sit-ee
/ˈmɛɡəˌsɪti/
A very large city, typically one with a population of over ten million people.
Specifically defined by urban demographic bodies by its massive, contiguous human population footprint.
The story behind the word. Formed by attaching the Greek prefix 'mega-' (huge, powerful) to 'city'. The United Nations popularized the term in the late 20th century to categorize rapid metropolitan growth in developing nations.
Word relationships
- metropolis: 'Metropolis' implies a major cultural or economic center regardless of population size, whereas 'megacity' demands population above 10 million.
- conurbation: 'Conurbation' focuses on the physical merging of several towns, while 'megacity' focuses on overall scale and headcount.
- hamlet: A 'hamlet' is a tiny rural settlement with very few residents.
- village: A 'village' is a small community situated in a rural area.
Commonly confused with
- megalopolis: 'Megalopolis' refers to a chain of interconnected metropolitan areas, while 'megacity' is one individual gigantic city structure.
Word family
- megacities (noun): Plural of megacity.
Collocations
- coastal megacity
- sprawling megacity
- emerging megacity
Example sentences
- "Tokyo remains the premier global megacity, hosting tens of millions within its sprawling metropolitan area." Global Geography Report
Memory hook
MEGA means giant; a MEGAcity is a giant urban realm. City over 10 million people.
When not to use
Do not call medium-sized capitals megacities; the official threshold is generally 10 million residents.
Fun facts
- In 1950, only New York and Tokyo qualified as megacities; today there are over 30 worldwide.
Related words
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