Midtown

/ˈmɪdtaʊn/ noun or adjective

Definition

The central part of a city, often referring to the business and shopping district, especially in New York City.

Etymology

Simple compound of 'mid' (middle) and 'town' (city). Popularized in the early 1900s as cities grew and developed distinct central districts.

Kelly Says

Midtown Manhattan became the defining use of 'midtown'—it's where the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Grand Central Terminal created such a powerful symbol of the city that 'Midtown' now means that specific version of urban center to many people worldwide.

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