Definition

A type of land that was used for industrial or commercial purposes but is now abandoned or not fully used, often with pollution issues, and can be redeveloped.

Example

The city plans to transform the brownfield into a park and housing area.

Conversation

Have you heard about the old factory site they're calling a brownfield?

Yeah, I think it’s a shame it got abandoned like that.

I wonder if they’ll ever redevelop it for something useful.

I hope so! It could really improve the neighborhood.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brownfield is formed from "brown" (from Old English "brūn", meaning dark or dusky) and "field" (from Old English "feld", meaning open land or field). The term refers to previously developed land that is not currently in use, often associated with environmental contamination.

Memory Tip

Think of 'brown' as a color often associated with land that has been used before, and 'field' as open land. Together, they help you remember that a brownfield is land that has been previously developed.

Visually Confused Words