In the United States, what is the correct term for a settlement with fewer than 100 inhabitants?

The correct term for a settlement with fewer than 100 inhabitants is "Hamlet." A hamlet is typically a very small community or settlement that may not have the characteristics of larger organizational structures found in towns or cities. It usually does not have its own government and relies on nearby larger settlements for certain services and governance.

In contrast, a village is larger than a hamlet and often has a distinct local government, while a town typically has a larger population and more infrastructure, including public services. A city, on the other hand, represents an even larger urban area with comprehensive governance and amenities. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the hierarchy of settlements based on population and organizational complexity.