Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

metropolitan-area

noun

/ˌmɛtəˈrɒpəlɪtən ˈɛəriə/

Definition

A metropolitan area is a large urban region that includes the city and its surrounding suburbs, characterized by a high population density and economic activity.

Examples

New York City is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States.
The San Francisco metropolitan area includes cities like Oakland and San Jose.

Meaning

Metropolitan areas are often comprised of multiple municipalities that work together as a cohesive economic unit, connected by infrastructure and social ties.