A metropolis is defined as a large city or conurbation that serves as a significant economic, political, and cultural center for a specific country or region. These urban areas function as primary hubs for international and regional connections, facilitating major commerce and communication networks.
While the term describes a general type of urban center rather than a single specific location, it refers to cities that exert substantial influence over their surrounding areas. They are characterized by their scale and their role in driving large-scale infrastructure and social activity.