Pronunciation: [spɹˈɔːl] (IPA) 
The word "sprawl" is spelled with the letters S-P-R-A-W-L. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /sprɔːl/. The "s" makes a /s/ sound, the "p" makes a /p/ sound, the "r" makes a rolled /r/ sound, the "a" makes a /ɔː/ sound, the "w" makes a /w/ sound, and the "l" makes an /l/ sound. The word refers to the spread of a city or urban area into the surrounding countryside or suburbs.
Sprawl is a term that can be defined as a pattern of urbanization characterized by the uncontrolled and rapid spread of development in an outward and disorganized manner. It refers to the expansion of cities and urban areas into previously undeveloped and rural land, resulting in the creation of low-density, sprawling communities.
The term "sprawl" typically describes the physical growth of a city or metropolitan area that lacks proper planning and land-use management. This often leads to a scattering of houses, commercial buildings, and infrastructure, resulting in the inefficient use of space and the loss of natural habitats.
Sprawl is often associated with various negative social, environmental, and economic consequences. It can contribute to increased traffic congestion, longer commuting times, higher infrastructure costs, and a higher demand for energy and resources. Sprawling developments also tend to further segregate neighborhoods and reduce social interactions.
In addition to its physical implications, sprawl can also refer to the spread and disorganization of ideas, concepts, or activities. For example, the term may be used to describe the extensive proliferation and influence of a particular cultural trend or phenomenon.
Overall, sprawl is a concept that denotes the unplanned and expansive growth of urban areas, resulting in a variety of negative consequences. Efforts to manage and mitigate sprawl generally involve urban planning measures aimed at promoting compact and sustainable development patterns.
To stretch the body and limbs widely and carelessly while lying; to lie with the limbs stretched out or struggling.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "sprawl" entered the English language in the early 14th century. Its etymology can be traced back to the Middle English noun "sprote" or "sprout", which referred to a shoot or twig. The verb form, "sprawlen", emerged in the late 14th century, describing the action of spreading out limbs or body in a relaxed or ungainly manner. Over time, "sprawl" developed its current meaning of extending or spreading out in an untidy or disorganized way, especially in the context of urban development. The word's origin lies in the Old Norse word "spraola", meaning to spread out or stretch.
