The spelling of the word "strip malls" follows standard English phonetics. The "s" in "strip" is pronounced as /s/, the "t" is pronounced as /t/, the "r" is pronounced as /r/, the "i" is pronounced as /ɪ/, and the "p" is pronounced as /p/. The word "malls" is spelled phonetically with the "m" pronounced as /m/, the "a" as /ɔː/, the "l" as /l/, and the "s" as /z/. Together they form the compound word "strip malls" pronounced as /strɪp mɔːlz/.
Strip malls are a type of retail development that consists of a row of closely connected commercial buildings located adjacent to a main road or highway. Also known as shopping plazas or mini-malls, strip malls are typically single-story structures with individual store units located side by side, forming a long and narrow complex.
They are designed in such a way that the front entrances of the stores face the parking lot, ensuring easy access for customers. Strip malls vary in size and may range from a few stores to a larger complex that houses numerous retail outlets, service establishments, and restaurants.
These commercial spaces provide a wide variety of goods and services that cater to the needs of the local community. Strip malls often host a mix of businesses, including grocery stores, coffee shops, banks, apparel stores, beauty salons, restaurants, and more. They serve as convenient one-stop destinations for shoppers, offering a diverse range of products and services in one centralized location.
Strip malls are an integral part of suburban and urban landscapes, providing an alternative to the traditional enclosed shopping centers or malls. They offer advantages such as easy access, ample parking, and a more informal and accessible shopping experience. Their presence contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities and attracting customers from nearby neighborhoods.
The word "strip malls" is derived from the combination of the word "strip" and "mall".
The word "strip" originally comes from the Middle English word "strype", which meant long, narrow piece or tract of land. It later developed into "strip" in the 16th century. The term "strip" was often used to describe a long, narrow area of land that was part of a larger tract.
The word "mall", on the other hand, has an interesting etymology as well. It originated from the Italian word "malla", which meant a randomly shaped bundle of straw. The term then evolved into "mall", which referred to an alley or enclosed walkway where people would stroll and shop. This meaning became more common in the 18th century.
The concept of strip malls developed in the mid-20th century as a response to the growing popularity of automobile transportation in the United States.