Metro
/ˈmɛtroʊ/
Definitions
2 meaningsA rapid transit system, often underground, used for public transportation within a city.
/ˈmɛtroʊ/
An underground urban railway system.
The metro is a convenient way to travel in the city.
💡 Simply: Imagine a super-fast train that travels under the city streets. It's like a giant toy train, but it takes real people to real places! Like, if you want to go from your house to the park without getting stuck in traffic, you might take the metro!
👶 For kids: A train that goes underground to help people get around the city.
More Examples
The metro system in Paris is one of the oldest in the world.
They are planning to build a new metro line to connect the suburbs to the city center.
During rush hour, the metro is often very crowded.
How It's Used
"The fastest way to get around the city is by taking the metro."
"The city is expanding its metro network to alleviate traffic congestion."
Of or relating to a metropolitan area or its inhabitants.
/ˈmɛtroʊ/
Relating to or characteristic of a metropolitan area.
The metro area is experiencing rapid population growth.
💡 Simply: If something is 'metro,' it's all about the big city! Like, a 'metro lifestyle' would mean living and working in the city, enjoying all the cool things it has to offer.
👶 For kids: Being like the big city.
More Examples
The new stadium will be a great asset for the metro region.
Metro housing costs are significantly higher than in rural areas.
They are studying the metro transit patterns of the city to improve the routes.
How It's Used
"The metro area faces challenges in providing affordable housing."
"The metro region includes the city and its surrounding suburbs."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Shortening of the French term "métropolitain," referring to a metropolitan railway system, particularly the Paris Métro. The term gained widespread adoption globally for similar systems.
The term 'metro' became widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as urban rail transit systems were developed in cities around the world.
Memory tip
Think of the 'metropolitan' area, where the metro helps people move quickly.
Word Origin
"short for métropolitain (metropolitan)"