Small towns with mostly Jewish people in Eastern Europe.
Shtetels are often thought of as close-knit communities with a rich cultural and religious life.
Examples:
My grandparents grew up in shtetels in Poland.
The shtetels were known for their traditions and celebrations.
In the shtetels, everyone knew each other.
The shtetels were like big families.
The shtetels were very, very small towns.
The shtetels were full of music and stories.