English · Culture & Society
gentrification
/ˌdʒɛn.trɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/
[/ˌdʒɛn.trɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/]
neighborhood upscaling
Advancednoun
Definition
The process by which wealthier residents move into and change a poorer urban area.
Example
Gentrification raised property values but pushed out many long-term residents of the neighborhood.
Gentrification raised property values but pushed out many long-term residents of the neighborhood.
Etymology
Coined by sociologist Ruth Glass in 1964 from 'gentry'.
How & Where It’s Used
Used in sociology, urban studies, and journalism.
Cultural Note
Often debated for displacing established communities while improving infrastructure.