Definition

The process where wealthier people move into a poorer area, improving it but often causing the original residents to leave due to rising costs.

Example

Gentrification has changed the neighborhood, making it more expensive for long-time residents to live there.

Conversation

Have you noticed the changes in our neighborhood lately?

Yeah, it seems like gentrification is happening everywhere now.

It's kind of sad because it pushes out some long-time residents.

I know, but I guess some of the new shops are nice too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gentrification → It is formed from "gentry" (from Old French *gentil*, meaning noble or well-born) and "-fication" (from Latin *facere*, meaning to make or do). The term describes the process of making a neighborhood more refined or upscale, often leading to the displacement of lower-income residents.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gentry' as referring to the noble or well-born people who are moving into an area, and '-fication' means to make. This helps you remember that gentrification is about making a neighborhood more upscale.

Visually Confused Words