What does metro mean?
A metro is an underground or partially underground rapid-transit railway, especially in a large city. The word can refer to the whole system, as in “the city has an extensive metro,” or to an individual train, line, or station. It is especially common in American English and in international English more generally, while British speakers may use “the Underground” or “the Tube” for local systems. Metro systems are typically powered electrically and run on dedicated tracks, distinguishing them from ordinary commuter or long-distance trains. The word is also used in combinations such as “metro map,” “metro line,” and “metro station,” and has become a familiar symbol of urban transportation, commuting, and city life.
nounAn underground or underground rapid-transit railway system, especially one serving a large city. The term is also used for the trains or stations that make up such a system.
- An underground or underground rapid-transit railway system, especially in a large city.
- A train or station belonging to such a railway system.
"She took the metro across town to avoid the evening traffic."
"The metro was delayed because of a signal failure."
"We met outside the metro station near the museum."
The plural is used when referring to multiple urban rapid-transit systems, particularly systems in different cities.
"The major European metros are expanding their late-night services."
The word “metro” is a shortened form of “metropolitan,” linking the city’s name to the underground railways that define its center.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metro come from?
“Metro” comes from the French abbreviation “métro,” which was shortened from “métropolitain,” meaning “of the metropolis.” The French word in turn derives from Greek “metropolētan,” from “mētēr” (“mother”) and “polis” (“city”), while the separate element “metron” (“measure”) also underlies related words such as “metric” and “diameter.” In modern English, “metro” was established through this French usage and refers especially to urban rapid-transit railways.
How metro is actually used
“Metro” is widely used in American English and in many international English varieties. In British English, “the Tube” is common for London’s underground railway, while “the Underground” is used more broadly; “metro” is also used in British English for systems in other cities and in general references to urban rapid transit.