noun

gentrification

jen-trih-fih-KAY-shuhn

Gentrification (noun) means the process by which a poorer urban area changes as wealthier residents and businesses move in, property prices rise and long-standing residents are gradually priced out. Example: “Twenty years of gentrification has turned the old dock area into flats and coffee shops.”

noun

The process by which a poorer urban area changes as wealthier residents and businesses move in, property prices rise and long-standing residents are gradually priced out.

"Twenty years of gentrification has turned the old dock area into flats and coffee shops."

"Campaigners argue that the arts festival accelerated gentrification rather than helping locals."

How to Use Gentrification

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhen richer people move into a poorer neighbourhood and the people already living there can no longer afford it.

When to use it

Usually critical. Property marketing prefers 'regeneration' or 'renewal' for the same process.

Memory tip

The related verb is gentrify: 'the area has been gentrified'.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

regeneration → redevelopment → displacement →

Common pairings

rapid gentrification resist gentrification gentrification of the neighbourhood gentrification and displacement

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Twenty years of _____ has turned the old dock area into flats and coffee shops.

Etymology

Formed from gentry, meaning people of higher social rank, plus -fication; the term entered urban sociology in the 1960s to describe changes in inner London.

Origin: English

Synonyms

View more →

urban renewal upscaling

Antonyms

urban decline

Rhymes for gentrification

region billion ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension

See all rhymes for gentrification →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between gentrification and regeneration?

They can describe the same building work, but the emphasis differs. Regeneration stresses investment and improved conditions; gentrification stresses who is displaced when rents rise. Which word a speaker chooses usually reveals their view of the change.

Is gentrification always bad?

Not by definition, and it can bring investment, jobs and lower crime. The criticism is about distribution: the benefits often go to newcomers and landlords while existing tenants and small shops are forced out.

What are the signs of gentrification?

Typical markers are rising rents and house prices, older housing stock being renovated or converted into flats, independent cafés and galleries replacing cheap local businesses, and a shift in the age and income of residents over a decade or so.