Meaning of the word "metropolitan area" in English

What does "metropolitan area" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

metropolitan area

US /ˌmɛt.rəˈpɑː.lɪ.tən ˈɛr.i.ə/
UK /ˌmɛt.rəˈpɒl.ɪ.tən ˈeə.ri.ə/
"metropolitan area" picture

Noun

a large city and the surrounding areas that are connected to it by transport and industry

Example:
The new public transport system will serve the entire metropolitan area.
Housing prices are generally higher in the metropolitan area compared to rural regions.