"Hinterland" refers to the area surrounding a city or town that is less developed and often rural. It serves as a buffer zone, providing resources and space for urban areas. The hinterland can include agricultural land, forests, and other natural landscapes that support the economy and lifestyle of nearby urban populations. In geography, the term is often used to describe regions that are economically linked to a central urban area. This relationship can involve the flow of goods, services, and people, making the hinterland essential for the sustainability of cities like New York or London.