How Do You Spell GHETTO?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈɛtə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "ghetto" can be confusing due to the various sounds involved. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈɡɛt̬oʊ/. The "gh" is pronounced as a voiced velar fricative, similar to the "g" in "go," and the "e" is pronounced as a short "e" sound. The "tt" is pronounced as a double consonant, emphasizing the "t" sound. Lastly, the "o" is pronounced as a long "o," similar to the "o" in "go." Overall, the spelling of "ghetto" accurately represents the sound of the word.

GHETTO Meaning and Definition

  1. Ghetto is a noun that refers to a specific area or neighborhood, typically in a city, in which a specific racial, ethnic, or social group lives, often as a result of discriminatory policies or socio-economic constraints. The term "ghetto" originated from the Italian word "getto," which was used to describe the segregated areas where Jewish people were forced to reside during the Middle Ages.

    In its contemporary usage, "ghetto" commonly conveys a place with poor living conditions, limited resources, and a high crime rate. These areas are often characterized by substandard housing, inadequate social services, and a lack of economic opportunities, resulting in a cycle of poverty and social marginalization. Ghettos can arise due to various factors, including racial or ethnic segregation, economic disparities, historical discrimination, and systemic barriers faced by the residents.

    While the term predominantly refers to urban settings, it can also be used metaphorically to describe isolated communities or groups that experience social, economic, or cultural marginalization. It is crucial to recognize that the term "ghetto" can be pejorative and offensive when used as a derogatory label targeting any particular group. Sensitivity and awareness are necessary to ensure appropriate usage, recognizing the historical context and significance of the term.

Top Common Misspellings for GHETTO *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for GHETTO

Etymology of GHETTO

The word "ghetto" has its origins in Italy. It comes from the Italian word "getto" (pronounced /ˈdʒɛtto/), meaning "foundry". In 1516, the Senate of Venice confined Jews to a segregated quarter called the "ghetto nuovo" ("new foundry") in the city, which had previously been home to a metal foundry. The term soon started being used as a noun to refer to any area or neighborhood where minority groups were compelled to live, often due to social, economic, or legal reasons. Over time, the term "ghetto" has evolved to be used in a broader context beyond just Jewish communities, representing various forms of segregation, poverty, and marginalization.

Idioms with the word GHETTO

  • ghetto sled The idiom "ghetto sled" is a slang term used to describe a cheap or dilapidated vehicle. It typically refers to a car that is in poor condition, has outdated features, or is considered undesirable. The term "ghetto" in this context suggests that the car is reminiscent of a vehicle commonly associated with inner-city neighborhoods or less affluent areas.
  • ghetto blaster The idiom "ghetto blaster" refers to a large, portable, and powerful stereo system, typically associated with the 1980s and early 1990s. It was commonly used in urban areas, particularly in low-income neighborhoods or ghettos, hence the term "ghetto blaster." This term also implies the ability of the stereo system to play music at high volumes, often to the annoyance or disturbance of others.
  • ghetto booty The idiom "ghetto booty" is a slang term that refers to a disproportionately large, rounded, or shapely buttocks of a person, particularly used to describe individuals of African American descent. It is important to note that this term can be considered offensive or derogatory, as it perpetuates stereotypes and objectifies individuals based on their physical appearance.
  • ghetto bird The idiom "ghetto bird" refers to a helicopter, typically a police helicopter, that patrols or hovers over a low-income or urban neighborhood, often associated with high crime rates. It is primarily used in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and hip-hop culture.
  • ghetto box The slang term "ghetto box" typically refers to a boombox or portable stereo system, often associated with urban communities or lower-income areas. It can also imply a device that plays loud music publicly, sometimes considered disruptive or obnoxious by others.

Similar spelling words for GHETTO

Plural form of GHETTO is GHETTOES OR GHETTOS

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: