noun
Smallville
noun
1
A generic or fictional name for a small, quiet town, often used to suggest a humble or rural origin.
"He grew up in a real-life Smallville before moving to the big city."
How to Use Smallville
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA stand-in name for any small, unremarkable hometown.
When to use it
Often used generically or humorously rather than as a real place name.
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He grew up in a real-life _____ before moving to the big city.
Etymology
Formed from "small" plus the placename suffix "-ville" — made famous as the fictional Kansas hometown of Superman.