small-town
UK: ˈsmɔːl taʊn | US: ˈsmɔːl taʊn
adj. relating to or characteristic of a small town, often implying a close-knit community or limited perspective.
The compound "small-town" combines "small" (Old English smæl, meaning "little in size") and "town" (Old English tūn, meaning "enclosure" or "settlement"). It emerged in the 19th century to describe the modest scale and communal nature of rural settlements, often carrying connotations of simplicity or provincialism. The hyphenated form preserves the distinct meanings of both morphemes while creating a unified adjective.
She preferred the small-town atmosphere over the chaos of the city.
His small-town values made him skeptical of urban lifestyles.
The film portrays a small-town romance with humor and warmth.
Critics accused the politician of having a small-town mindset.
Despite its small-town charm, the village had a thriving arts scene.