English Reference
noun

metropolis

n.
US /məˈtɹɑpəɫəs/ UK /mətɹˈɒpəlˌɪs/ me·trop·o·lis

  1. 01 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical History

    in ancient times, the 'mother city' that started a new colony.

    the parent state or founding city-state of a colony, particularly in the context of Ancient Greece.

    Simple

    Corinth served as the metropolis for several colonies across the Mediterranean.

    In context

    Historians examined the cultural ties that remained between the new settlement and its original metropolis centuries after the initial migration.

    mother city
  2. 02 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    the main area where a specific type of plant or animal is found.

    a primary geographical center of distribution for a particular genus or species of plants or animals.

    Simple

    This region is the metropolis for several rare species of tropical ferns.

    In context

    The research identifies the river basin as the biological metropolis for these amphibians, from which they migrated to neighboring wetlands.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical Religion

    the main city or area where a high-ranking bishop has their office.

    the see or central city of a metropolitan bishop, holding authority over other local church districts.

    Simple

    The cathedral in the metropolis serves as the headquarters for the entire province.

    In context

    Ecclesiastical law defines the specific administrative powers the archbishop holds within his metropolis.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated