óriásváros

óriásváros is a Hungarian term that translates to "giant city" or "megacity." It generally refers to a very large, sprawling urban area, often encompassing multiple formerly distinct towns and cities that have merged over time due to continuous growth and development. The concept is not strictly defined by population or geographical size but rather by the qualitative sense of immense scale and interconnectedness within the urban landscape.

These areas are characterized by high population density, extensive infrastructure, and a complex socio-economic fabric. They often serve as major economic, cultural, and transportation hubs for their respective regions or countries. The development of an óriásváros typically involves significant suburbanization and the blurring of boundaries between urban and rural areas. Transportation networks, including highways, public transit, and logistics, are crucial for the functioning of such large conurbations.

The term can sometimes carry connotations of urban challenges, such as traffic congestion, environmental pollution, and social stratification, which are often amplified in areas of such immense scale. However, it also signifies immense opportunity, innovation, and diversity. The precise geographical boundaries of an óriásváros can be fluid and are often a subject of discussion among urban planners and geographers, as the process of urban expansion is continuous.