Which term refers to impoverished urban areas?

The term that refers to impoverished urban areas is "slums." Slums are typically characterized by overcrowded conditions, inadequate housing, and a lack of basic services such as clean water, sanitation, and reliable electricity. These areas emerge in urban settings where the demand for affordable housing exceeds supply, often resulting in makeshift dwellings and a concentration of poverty.

Slums are often marked by social challenges, including higher rates of unemployment and crime, and health issues related to poor living conditions. They may develop in various ways, including informal settlements, but the defining feature is the entrenched poverty experienced by residents. This term captures the essence of the struggles faced by populations living in these parts of the city, making it a fitting descriptor for impoverished urban areas.