Infrastructure
/ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃər/
Definitions
The fundamental facilities and systems serving a country, city, or area, including the services and facilities necessary for its economy to function.
/ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃər/
The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
The government is investing heavily in infrastructure projects to improve transportation.
💡 Simply: Think of infrastructure like the skeleton of a city or a business. It's all the essential stuff that makes everything work, like roads, power lines, and communication systems. Without good infrastructure, things fall apart!
👶 For kids: Infrastructure is like the things that help a city run, like roads and bridges and water pipes!
More Examples
Poor infrastructure can hinder economic development.
The city's power grid is a critical component of its infrastructure.
How It's Used
"The new bridge is a vital piece of transportation infrastructure."
"Investment in infrastructure is crucial for economic growth."
"The city's aging infrastructure requires significant upgrades."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Critical Infrastructure
Essential systems and assets vital to a nation's security, economy, and public health and safety.
"Protecting the nation's critical infrastructure is a primary concern for national security agencies."
Green Infrastructure
Natural systems and features, such as parks, greenways, and urban forests, that provide ecosystem services like stormwater management and heat island mitigation.
"The city is investing in green infrastructure to improve air quality and reduce flooding."
From French infrastructure, from infra- (below) + structure. The word entered widespread use in the mid-20th century, particularly in the context of post-war reconstruction and economic development.
The term gained prominence after World War II, during the reconstruction of Europe and the development of newly independent nations. It emphasized the importance of underlying systems for economic growth and social well-being.
Memory tip
Imagine a strong foundation (the "infra") built to support a city's "structure."
Word Origin
"infra (below) + structure (something built)"