Neighborhood Meaning
Neighborhood Definition & Usage
A neighborhood is a geographically localized community or district within a larger city or town. It is often characterized by a sense of community and common social ties among its residents.
Examples
- "I live in a quiet neighborhood just outside the city."
- "Our neighborhood has an annual block party where everyone gets together."
- "There are several parks and playgrounds in my neighborhood, which makes it great for families."
- "The neighborhood is very diverse, with people from all over the world."
- "I’ve lived in this neighborhood for over ten years and love the sense of community here."
A neighborhood can also refer to the surrounding area or vicinity of a particular place, especially when emphasizing proximity or accessibility.
Examples
- "The store is in the neighborhood of my office, so I usually go there during lunch."
- "We’re moving to a new neighborhood, just a few blocks from downtown."
- "I think we should explore some new neighborhoods for our weekend outing."
- "This neighborhood is much more affordable than the one near the beach."
- "He works in a neighborhood that's known for its thriving art scene."
In informal contexts, the word 'neighborhood' can also be used to refer to a social group or the people living in a given area, particularly in relation to group activities or interactions.
Examples
- "The kids are playing basketball in the neighborhood; everyone is invited to join!"
- "She’s really well-known in the neighborhood for organizing charity events."
- "The neighborhood has a tight-knit group of volunteers who help each other out."
- "After moving to the area, I made many new friends just by joining neighborhood events."
- "I bumped into an old friend in the neighborhood and we caught up over coffee."
Cultural Context
The concept of a neighborhood has evolved significantly over the centuries, from small, tight-knit villages to sprawling urban communities. It is deeply tied to social structures, and many people still identify strongly with the neighborhood in which they live, often associating it with their sense of belonging, security, and community spirit.
A New Beginning in the Neighborhood
Story
A New Beginning in the Neighborhood
Sarah had always dreamed of living in a peaceful neighborhood where neighbors knew each other's names and helped one another out. When she moved into her new home, a cozy cottage tucked in a quiet street, she couldn't have asked for a better neighborhood. The houses were close-knit, yet each had its own charm. She immediately felt welcomed by Mrs. Rodriguez, the elderly woman who lived across the street. Mrs. Rodriguez invited her to a community potluck dinner, and Sarah felt like she was already part of something special. On the evening of the potluck, Sarah walked through the neighborhood, greeted by families enjoying the cool breeze on their front porches. Children raced by on their bikes, and the smell of homemade food wafted through the air. As Sarah reached the community park where the event was being held, she noticed that the entire neighborhood had gathered—young and old, newcomers and long-time residents alike. It was the first time in years that she had felt such a sense of belonging. Later in the evening, she spoke with Jake, a local resident, about the neighborhood's history. "It's a pretty tight neighborhood," he said, leaning against a fence. "People here really look out for each other, especially with the neighborhood watch program. If you ever need anything, just ask." Sarah smiled, feeling a deep connection to the place. She realized that this wasn't just a neighborhood—it was a community, a home that welcomed everyone with open arms. As the night grew darker, the streetlights flickered on, and Sarah took a moment to look around, feeling lucky to be part of such a warm, inviting neighborhood.