squalor

[skwol-er]

squalor Definition

• 1. the state of being extremely dirty and unpleasant, especially as a result of poverty or neglect
• 2. a place or living conditions that are extremely dirty and unpleasant

Using squalor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "squalor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The family lived in squalor, surrounded by garbage and filth.

• Example

  The city's slums were notorious for their squalor and poor living conditions.

• Example

  The abandoned building was in a state of squalor, with broken windows and debris everywhere.

squalor Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for squalor

• dirtiness
• muck
• sordidness
• filth
• grime

Antonyms for squalor

• cleanliness
• neatness

Phrases with squalor

• live in squalor

  to live in a state of extreme poverty and filth

  Example

  The refugees were forced to live in squalor, with no access to clean water or sanitation facilities.

• squalor of war

  the extreme poverty, destruction, and suffering caused by war

  Example

  The photographs showed the squalor of war, with bombed-out buildings and injured civilians.

• escape from squalor

  to leave a situation of extreme poverty and filth

  Example

  She managed to escape from squalor by getting a job and saving up enough money to move to a better neighborhood.

Origins of squalor

from Latin 'squalere', meaning 'be rough with hair or fur'

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Summary: squalor in Brief

The term 'squalor' [skwol-er] refers to a state of extreme dirtiness and unpleasantness, often resulting from poverty or neglect. It can describe living conditions or places, such as slums or abandoned buildings. Phrases like 'live in squalor' and 'escape from squalor' denote the experience of living in such conditions. Synonyms include 'filth,' 'dirtiness,' and 'sordidness.'