Definition

A place where many people live in small, simple houses made from cheap materials, often found in poor areas.

Example

The government is working to improve living conditions in the shantytown.

Conversation

Have you seen that new documentary about the shantytown in the city?

Yeah, it was really eye-opening to see how people live there.

It made me think about the challenges they face every day.

Absolutely, it’s a reminder of how important it is to help those in need.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shantytown is formed from "shanty" (from Hindi *śantī*, meaning a hut or shelter) and "town" (from Old English *tūn*, meaning an enclosure or settlement). A shantytown refers to a settlement consisting of poorly built huts or shelters.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'hut' ('shanty') in a 'settlement' ('town') — that's what a shantytown is, a place where many huts are gathered together.

Visually Confused Words