atlantic city: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Proper noun; used in geographic, cultural, and business/tourism contexts.
Quick answer
What does “atlantic city” mean?
A city in the U.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A city in the U.S. state of New Jersey, located on Absecon Island on the Atlantic coast, famous for its casinos, boardwalk, and beach resorts.
Often used as a cultural symbol for gambling, risk-taking, faded grandeur, or the American resort industry; also referenced in music, film, and literature as a specific locale with particular socio-economic associations.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
UK speakers are less likely to refer to it spontaneously unless discussing travel, gambling, or American culture. US speakers, especially in the Northeast, are more familiar with it as a regional destination.
Connotations
For Americans, connotations range from nostalgic seaside resort to struggling gambling hub. For Brits, it is often viewed as a somewhat exotic, archetypal American casino destination, analogous to Blackpool or Brighton but with gambling.
Frequency
Higher frequency in US English, particularly in media, tourism, and regional discourse. Low frequency in UK everyday speech, appearing mainly in cultural or news contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “atlantic city” in a Sentence
[We] are driving to [Atlantic City].[Atlantic City] is known for [its casinos].He gambled [his savings] away in [Atlantic City].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “atlantic city” in a Sentence
verb
American English
- They decided to Atlantic City their weekend (informal: to spend it gambling/partying there).
adjective
British English
- The Atlantic City experience is unique.
American English
- He had a real Atlantic City vibe about him.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to the casino and hospitality industry, tourism revenue, or urban redevelopment projects.
Academic
In urban studies, sociology, or history discussing urban decay, tourism economies, or the impact of legalized gambling.
Everyday
Discussing travel plans, a weekend getaway, or reminiscing about a visit.
Technical
In geography as a coastal city; in gaming regulation as a specific jurisdiction.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “atlantic city”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “atlantic city”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “atlantic city”
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'an atlantic city').
- Misspelling as 'Atlantic City' without the capital 'C'.
- Confusing it with Ocean City (another New Jersey resort).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's also historically known for its iconic Boardwalk, beaches, and as a seaside resort since the 19th century, though gambling is its dominant modern association.
Yes, it can metaphorically represent taking big risks ('feeling like Atlantic City'), faded glamour, or a specific type of American urban experience.
Both are major, dedicated casino destinations in the US. Atlantic City was the first place outside Nevada to legalise casino gambling, aiming to become the 'Las Vegas of the East'.
Like any major tourist city, it has safer tourist areas (the Boardwalk, casino districts) and less safe areas. Visitors are advised to stay in well-trafficked, tourist-oriented zones.
A city in the U.
Atlantic city is usually proper noun; used in geographic, cultural, and business/tourism contexts. in register.
Atlantic city: in British English it is pronounced /ətˌlæn.tɪk ˈsɪt.i/, and in American English it is pronounced /ətˌlæn.tɪk ˈsɪt.i/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “roll the dice in Atlantic City (to take a big risk)”
- “an Atlantic City marriage (slang, historical: a quick, often gambling-funded marriage)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Atlantic City: ATLANTIC (the ocean it's on) + CITY (the urban area). Think of the 'city' by the 'Atlantic' with casinos.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GAMBLING HUB IS A MAGNET FOR FORTUNE/FAILURE; A RESORT CITY IS A STAGE FOR ESCAPISM.
Practice
Quiz
Atlantic City is most famously associated with which industry?