sprawling
UK: /ˈsprɔː.lɪŋ/ | US: /ˈsprɑː.lɪŋ/
adj. 1. (of a city, area, etc.) spreading out over a large space in an untidy or uncontrolled way.
adj. 2. (of a person or limb) lying or stretched out in a relaxed or ungainly manner.
v. (present participle of sprawl) To spread out awkwardly or carelessly.
The word sprawl originates from the Old English sprēawlian, meaning "to move clumsily or convulsively." It evolved to describe limbs or objects extending in a disordered manner, later applied to urban expansion. The -ing suffix forms the present participle, emphasizing ongoing or expansive action. The imagery of uncontrolled spread (like limbs or cities) ties the word’s history to its modern meanings.
The sprawling suburbs stretched for miles beyond the city center.
He lay sprawling on the couch, too tired to move.
The vine’s sprawling branches covered the entire fence.
Rapid development led to a sprawling metropolis with no clear planning.
Her notes were sprawling across the desk, making it hard to find anything.