English · Travel & Places
slum
/slʌm/
[/slʌm/]
poor crowded area
Advancednoun
Definition
A crowded, poor area of a city with very basic and run-down housing.
Example
The charity worked to improve living conditions for families in the city's overcrowded slum.
The charity worked to improve living conditions for families in the city's overcrowded slum.
Etymology
Of uncertain origin, recorded in early 19th-century London slang.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in social and urban discussions; can be sensitive.