What does the Greek root 'polis' refer to?

The Greek root 'polis' is derived from the ancient Greek word meaning 'city' or 'city-state.' This term is foundational in a variety of English words that relate to urban environments or governance, such as 'metropolis,' which refers to a large city, and 'politics,' which pertains to governance and the organization of urban populations. The significance of 'polis' lies in its association with the civic life of its inhabitants and the social structures that characterized ancient Greek civilization. Thus, understanding 'polis' as 'city' is essential for grasping the historical and cultural context in which many modern concepts of community and governance evolved.