Slum Meaning and Definition
Slum
Pronunciation
/slʌm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A densely populated urban area characterized by substandard housing, poverty, and poor sanitation.
Examples
- The government has initiated a program to revitalize the city’s slum areas.
- Many people in the slum struggle to access basic amenities like clean water and electricity.
Synonyms
- Ghetto
- Shantytown
Antonyms
- Upscale neighborhood
- Affluent area
Additional Information
Slums often lack basic infrastructure, such as paved roads, sanitation systems, and access to healthcare. This can lead to the spread of diseases, poverty, and social unrest. Many slums are also characterized by high crime rates, and residents may face discrimination and marginalization.
In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on slum upgrading and urban renewal, with efforts to provide residents with better living conditions, improved access to amenities, and increased social and economic opportunities.
Etymology
The word “slum” originated in the 19th century, derived from the Irish word “slum,” meaning “hovel” or “wretched dwelling.”
Usage Notes
The term “slum” can be used to describe a specific urban area or a general condition of poverty and neglect. It can also be used to refer to the people living in such areas, although this usage is often considered pejorative.
Cultural References
The concept of slums has been depicted in numerous films, literature, and music, often highlighting the struggles and hardships faced by residents. Examples include the novel “Slumdog Millionaire” and the film “City of God.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
From the slums to the stars: This phrase describes an individual’s rise to success from humble beginnings.
Related Words or Phrases
Shantytown, ghetto, urban renewal, poverty trap
Collocations
Slum dwellers, slum lords, slum clearance, slum conditions
Frequency of Use
The word “slum” is commonly used in news articles, academic research, and social commentary, with an increasing frequency of use in recent years.
Common Misspellings
Sloom, Slume, Slom