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Settlement Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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settlement

[หˆsษ›tlmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

residential area

A settlement is a place where people live, especially one where people have come to live and have built homes. It can refer to a small village, town, or community.

Synonyms

community, town, village.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settlement

Used to describe a small community in a new or remote area, often implying initial stages of habitation.

  • The explorers established a settlement along the river.
  • The archaeological dig uncovered evidence of an ancient settlement.
village

Describes a small group of houses and buildings, usually located in rural areas and smaller than a town.

  • They moved to a peaceful village in the countryside.
  • The village church is over 200 years old.
town

Refers to a populated area that is larger than a village but smaller than a city, often with more amenities than a village.

  • The town hosted their annual summer fair.
  • She grew up in a small town not far from the coast.
community

Emphasizes a group of people living together and sharing resources or interests, often used in a broader context including larger areas.

  • The community organized a clean-up day in the park.
  • She always felt supported by her local community.

Examples of usage

  • The small settlement nestled in the valley was home to about 200 residents.
  • The early settlers established the first permanent settlement in the region.
Context #2 | Noun

legal agreement

In a legal context, a settlement refers to an agreement reached between two parties to resolve a dispute or claim without going to trial. It often involves a compromise by both parties.

Synonyms

agreement, compromise, resolution.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settlement

This word is used when referring to the conclusion of a dispute or the mutual decision reached by all parties involved, often involving legal or financial matters.

  • The two companies finally reached a settlement after months of negotiations.
  • The divorce settlement ensured both parties received equal shares of their assets.
agreement

This term is employed when two or more parties consent to a mutual understanding, which can be formal or informal, and is broader in scope than a legal settlement.

  • They came to an agreement regarding the new business partnership.
  • The landlord and tenant reached an agreement on the terms of the lease.
compromise

Use this word when describing a situation where each party involved makes concessions to reach a mutual decision. Often implies that not all aspects are fully satisfactory to either side.

  • After a long discussion, they found a compromise that worked for everyone.
  • A compromise was necessary to avoid a long, drawn-out dispute.
resolution

This term is suitable when referring to the end result of solving a problem or dispute, often suggesting a more formal and final outcome than compromise.

  • They were relieved to achieve a resolution to the issue that had been troubling them for weeks.
  • The resolution of the conflict was a major turning point for the community.

Examples of usage

  • The two companies reached a settlement after months of negotiations.
  • The settlement included a financial compensation and an apology.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Early human settlements date back to about 10,000 BC, marking the transition from nomadic life to agriculture.
  • The first cities began as settlements in Mesopotamia around 3500 BC, often near rivers for farming.

Law

  • In legal terms, a settlement is an agreement reached between parties to resolve a dispute without going to trial.
  • Settlements often involve negotiations and can lead to compensation or changes in behavior, providing a faster resolution.

Culture

  • Settlements can reflect diverse cultures, showcasing unique architectural styles, food, and traditions shaped by the local environment.
  • Indigenous communities often have settlements that are deeply connected to the land and their cultural identity.

Economics

  • Settlement patterns influence economic activities, with trade centers often located in places where settlements thrived.
  • Rural settlements may foster agriculture, while urban settlements typically drive industrial and service economies.

Origin of 'settlement'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'setlite' meaning a place to settle.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'sedere,' which means 'to sit,' reflecting the idea of establishing oneself in a place.

The word 'settlement' has its roots in the Old English word 'setl', which meant a place where people lived or made a home. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings, including a residential area and a legal agreement. Settlements have played a significant role in human history, from the early settlements of hunter-gatherer societies to modern urban settlements. The concept of settlement reflects the fundamental human need for shelter, community, and resolution of conflicts.

See also: resettle, resettlement, settled, settler, settlers, unsettle, unsettled, unsettling.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,620, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.