Sprawling

Characterized by spreading out irregularly or extensively. 'Sprawling' suggests a lack of central organization or containment, often used to describe things that cover a wide area in a haphazard or ungainly manner. It can imply a lack of control or efficiency in growth or arrangement. The term often carries a slightly negative connotation when describing urban landscapes, suggesting disorganized development. However, it can also be used neutrally or even positively to describe natural landscapes like a sprawling meadow, suggesting spaciousness and freedom. sprawling generally implies a horizontal expanse.

Sprawling meaning with examples

• The sprawling metropolis, once a small village, now engulfed neighboring towns, its endless suburbs a testament to unplanned urban growth and automobile dependency.
• After the earthquake, the rescue teams faced a sprawling disaster zone, debris scattered across miles, making the search for survivors a monumental challenge.
• The sprawling oak tree, its branches reaching out in every direction, provided a welcome canopy of shade on the hot summer day for picnicking families.
• Her sprawling handwriting, barely legible, filled the entire page of the notebook, a chaotic expression of her overflowing thoughts and impulsive creativity.