urban sprawl

noun

1. the uncontrolled spread of urban development into neighboring regions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of urban sprawl¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Its reliance on single-use zoning, for instance, can make it seem like urban sprawl is the only way for cities to grow.

From The Daily Beast

But many more are being ruined by the steady advance of standard urban sprawl.

From Project Gutenberg