Bidonville – Definition & Meaning

Bidonville is a term that is often associated with poverty and urbanization. It is a word that is used to describe a shantytown or slum area, usually found on the outskirts of a city. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bidonville, its origin, and its associations.

Definitions

Bidonville is a French word that translates to “tin can town” or “shantytown”. It is a term that is used to describe a makeshift settlement that is built from scrap materials such as corrugated iron, plastic sheets, and wooden planks. These settlements are often found in urban areas where people have migrated from rural areas in search of better opportunities.

Origin

The word bidonville originated in France during the 1950s and 1960s. It was used to describe the makeshift settlements that were built by North African immigrants who had moved to France in search of work. These settlements were often built on the outskirts of major cities such as Paris and Marseille.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of bidonville is consistent across different dictionaries. It is defined as a shantytown or slum area that is built from scrap materials. The word is often associated with poverty and urbanization.

Associations

The associations of bidonville are often negative. It is a word that is associated with poverty, overcrowding, and unsanitary living conditions. Bidonvilles are often seen as a symbol of inequality and social injustice.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms for bidonville, including shantytown, slum, favela, and squatter settlement. These words all describe makeshift settlements that are built from scrap materials.

Antonyms

The antonyms of bidonville are words that describe the opposite of a shantytown or slum area. These words include affluent, prosperous, and affluent neighborhood.

The same root words

The root word of bidonville is “bidon”, which translates to “tin can” in French. This word is used to describe the scrap materials that are often used to build these makeshift settlements.

Example Sentences

1. The bidonville on the outskirts of the city was home to thousands of people living in poverty.
2. The government has launched a campaign to improve living conditions in the bidonvilles.
3. The bidonville was demolished to make way for a new housing development.
4. The residents of the bidonville were forced to relocate after a major flood destroyed their homes.
5. The bidonvilles are a stark reminder of the social inequality that exists in our society.