RURAL Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

rural

adjective

ˈru̇r(-ə)l

Definition of rural

as in pastoral

of, relating to, associated with, or typical of open areas with few buildings or people grew up in a rural community where more than half the people were farmers a painter noted for his rural landscapes

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of rural Malenshek detailed how Land O’Lakes is stretching beyond its agricultural and dairy product roots to help bring contemporary perspectives on rural America to life. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 8 Oct. 2026 Surprising no one, these cases have been concentrated among rural communities where immunization rates are lower. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 8 Oct. 2026 At the meeting, Maitland Mayor John Lowndes, a Democrat who is running against Brodeur for the state Senate seat, spoke out against Dorworth’s assertion that the county’s development process was rigged in favor of preserving the rural boundary. — Martin E. Comas, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026 Even offering it on public radio would leave rural people out, since many small public radio stations have had to fold. — Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rural

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rural

Adjective

These new or renovated getaways offer opportunities to bask in the season’s pastoral and cultural delights in comfort.

— Stephanie Rosenbloom, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2026
In that, the vinyl panel turns the 18th-century style on its head, becoming a subversive counterweight to its typically placid, pastoral energy.

— Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of pastoral

Adjective

But also multi-country emigration tales, as in Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing.

— Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 11 Aug. 2026
Previous World Cups were concentrated within one nation, but this year supporters often crossed international borders, making the multi-country experience part of the tournament's appeal.

— Doug Melville, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Definition of country

Adjective

Virunga Lodge is a rustic hilltop retreat with ten suites (or bandas), half overlooking stunning Lake Burera, the other with sweeping views of Rwanda's jagged volcanic peaks.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
Past presidents have used Camp David, a rustic compound in Maryland, as a weekend retreat and a place to host presidential meetings.

— ABC News, ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026

Definition of rustic

Adjective

The building itself is a marvel, along with the dreamy, bucolic setting, laced with ivy, lemon trees, and cascading stone fountains.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Oct. 2026
Where to Stay in Litchfield, Connecticut No trip to Litchfield is complete without a stay at the bucolic Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Collection.

— Christina Pérez, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026