urban sprawl

noun

1. the uncontrolled spread of urban development into neighboring regions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of urban sprawl¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

This walk doesn’t fall into the category of bucolic country stroll, but it offers an unusual opportunity to get outside in the middle of the urban sprawl.

From Los Angeles Times

Miller, however, argued that the development threatening the owls is urban sprawl, often characterized by low-density housing — not areas where affordable housing is built.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s evidence that having more local folks involved in food production reaps benefits for a community even in a place with urban sprawl like Los Angeles, De la Haye said.

From Los Angeles Times

On the far north side of Phoenix, where scraps of desert are still visible amid the relentless urban sprawl, Ruth Lambert was collecting signatures to put the abortion question before voters.

From Los Angeles Times

Poor planning, urban sprawl and scorching dry weather have strained the water supply.

From New York Times