backlands
/ˈbækˌlændz/
NOUN
1. Remote or undeveloped land beyond a main settlement
Areas of land situated behind or beyond a primary settlement or developed region, typically rural, isolated, sparsely populated, or relatively undeveloped.
1.1. Remote countryside and rural territories
Refers to extensive rural areas located away from major towns, cities, and centers of population, often characterized by natural landscapes and limited development.
Synonyms
- backcountry
- backwoods
- hinterland
- outback
- outlands
- bush
- boondocks
- boonies
- sticks
- up-country
Examples
- The pioneers settled in the rugged backlands, seeking a simpler life.
- The ecotourism project aimed to showcase the natural beauty of the untouched backlands.
- The hikers explored the challenging terrain of the remote backlands.
- The farmer cultivated a thriving community in the fertile backlands.
- The documentary highlighted the unique flora and fauna of the Australian backlands.
Related Words
- wilderness
- frontier
- countryside
- rural areas
- remote regions
- undeveloped land
- rural settlements
1.2. Underdeveloped or isolated regions
Refers to remote territories that have limited infrastructure, economic activity, or access to major services compared with more developed urban and commercial centers.
Synonyms
- backwater
- backcountry
- backwoods
- boondocks
- sticks
Antonyms
- metropolitan areas
- urban centers
- developed regions
Examples
- Investment in transportation helped connect the isolated backlands with nearby commercial centers.
- Many communities in the backlands still lack reliable access to public services.
- The government introduced development programs to improve living conditions in the country's backlands.
Related Words
- rural isolation
- underdevelopment
- remoteness
- infrastructure
- regional development
- urbanization