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Settler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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settler

[ˈsɛt.lər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

early American history

A settler is a person who moves to a new area, typically a sparsely populated land, to establish permanent residence and cultivate the land.

Synonyms

colonist, immigrant, pioneer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settler

Used for a person who moves to a new area or country to live there permanently, often in groups or families.

  • The early settlers faced many hardships in the new land.
  • The village was founded by European settlers.
pioneer

Used for someone who is among the first to explore or settle a new area, often breaking new ground or leading others.

  • The pioneers trekked across the mountains to settle in the uncharted territory.
  • He was a pioneer in the field of renewable energy.
colonist

Refers to someone who settles in a colony, especially during the era of European colonialism. It often implies establishing control over indigenous populations.

  • The colonists established plantations and trade routes.
  • Conflict arose between the colonists and the native tribes.
immigrant

Describes a person who moves to a foreign country for permanent residence, often seeking better opportunities.

  • The city has a large community of immigrants from various countries.
  • She became an immigrant to pursue a better life in the United States.

Examples of usage

  • The settlers traveled westward in search of new opportunities.
  • The settlers built their homes and farms in the new territory.
Context #2 | Noun

modern context

A settler is also a person who settles in a new place, especially one with no legal right to be there.

Synonyms

intruder, squatter, trespasser.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
settler

Used when referring to a person who moves to a new place to live, often in a newly discovered or undeveloped area.

  • The settlers established a new community in the remote valley
  • Many settlers faced harsh conditions when they moved west in the 1800s
squatter

Refers to someone who settles on land or in a property without legal permission, often implying illegal occupation.

  • The building was taken over by squatters after it was abandoned
  • Authorities are working to remove squatters from the vacant lot
trespasser

Used to describe a person who enters someone else's property without permission, generally implying unlawful entry.

  • The sign warned that trespassers would be prosecuted
  • The farmer set up fences to keep trespassers away from his land
intruder

Typically used to describe someone who enters a place without permission, often with the implication of posing a threat or having malicious intent.

  • The alarm went off when the intruder entered the house
  • They called the police because an intruder was spotted in the building

Examples of usage

  • The settlers established an unauthorized encampment on the outskirts of the city.
  • Many settlers were forced to leave the area due to legal issues.

Translations

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

Origin of 'settler'

The term 'settler' originated in the 17th century, derived from the verb 'settle' meaning 'to establish in a new residence'. Settlers played a crucial role in the colonization of various regions around the world, often leading to conflicts with indigenous populations. In modern times, the term has evolved to also include individuals who unlawfully occupy land or property.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,676, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.