Settlers: meaning, definitions and examples

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settlers

[ˈsɛtlərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

early American history

People who move into and live in a new country or area, often creating a permanent community. Settlers typically establish farms, towns, or villages.

Synonyms

colonists, homesteaders, pioneers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
settlers	Appropriate for general use to refer to people who move to a new area to live, typically in a historical context. The first settlers arrived in the valley in the late 18th century
colonists	Best used when referring to people who establish a colony, often implying governance from a distant country. It can have a negative connotation due to historical associations with oppression and exploitation. The colonists imposed their laws on the indigenous people
pioneers	Refers to early settlers in a new area, especially those who are among the first to explore or settle a new region. It also suggests innovation and bravery. The pioneers faced many hardships as they journeyed west
homesteaders	Used to specifically describe people who received free land from the government under the Homestead Act or similar laws, often in the context of the American frontier. The homesteaders worked tirelessly to cultivate their new land

Examples of usage

The settlers crossed the ocean in search of a better life.
The settlers built their homes on the vast prairies of the Midwest.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

modern context

Individuals who establish residence in a new region or community, often with the intention of building a new life or pursuing opportunities.

Synonyms

immigrants, inhabitants, residents.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
settlers	Use 'settlers' when referring to people who move to a non-populated or less populated area to start a new community. This often has historical connotations and can imply the establishment of new settlements, often with pioneering efforts. The early settlers faced many hardships when they arrived in the New World The Dutch settlers built many small towns in the region
residents	Use 'residents' when talking about people who live in a specific location, particularly within a neighborhood, building, or city. It often implies a stable or long-term living situation. The residents of the apartment building organized a block party Long-term residents have seen many changes in the neighborhood over the years
inhabitants	'Inhabitants' generally describes the people who live in a particular place, such as a city, town, or country, without necessarily implying that they moved there from somewhere else. It is a more neutral term in comparison to 'settlers' or 'immigrants'. The inhabitants of the island have a rich cultural history Many of the city's inhabitants are concerned about climate change
immigrants	The term 'immigrants' is used for people who move from one country to another with the intention of living there permanently. This word is commonly used in discussions about migration and often relates to policy, cultural integration, and legal status. The city has a large population of immigrants from Southeast Asia Immigration laws can be complex and difficult to navigate for new immigrants

Examples of usage

The new settlers in the neighborhood brought diversity to the community.
The company offered incentives to attract settlers to the rural area.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term has roots in the Old French word 'sétel', which means to establish a residence.
Many settlers in North America were motivated by the promise of land and opportunity during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The concept of settling lands is deeply tied to the exploration and colonization movements throughout history.

Cultural Impact

Settlers often brought their customs, traditions, and languages, significantly affecting the cultures of indigenous peoples.
The legacy of settlers is complex, as it involves both the establishment of new communities and the displacement of existing populations.
Festivals and practices reflecting settlers' backgrounds can still be seen in modern celebrations, showcasing cultural fusion.

Literature

Settlers have been a popular theme in American literature, symbolizing hope, adventure, and challenges in works like 'Little House on the Prairie'.
Classic novels often portray settlers' struggles and successes, serving as a narrative for the American identity evolution.
Contemporary literature frequently revisits the stories of settlers with a critical lens to address historical injustices.

Politics

Policies regarding land appropriation and settlement have shaped the relationships between governments and indigenous communities.
Settler colonialism is a term used to describe a form of colonialism that seeks to replace indigenous populations with settlers.
Debates about land use and ownership in many countries still echo the historical decisions made by early settlers.

Science and Technology

Settlers often adapted agricultural and survival techniques suited to their new environments, influencing farming methods.
Advancements in tools and technology were introduced by settlers, transforming local economies and ecosystems.
Modern scientific studies sometimes focus on the environmental impacts of early settlements and their adaptations.

Translations

Translations of the word "settlers" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colonos

🇮🇳 बसने वाले

🇩🇪 Siedler

🇮🇩 pemukim

🇺🇦 поселенці

🇵🇱 osadnicy

🇯🇵 入植者

🇫🇷 colons

🇪🇸 colonos

🇹🇷 yerleşimciler

🇰🇷 정착민

🇸🇦 مستوطنون

🇨🇿 osadníci

🇸🇰 osadníci

🇨🇳 定居者

🇸🇮 naseljenci

🇮🇸 landnemar

🇰🇿 қоныстанушылар

🇬🇪 მოსახლეები

🇦🇿 məskunlaşanlar

🇲🇽 colonos

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,308 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5305 den
5306 cellular
5307 corrosion
5308 settlers
5309 conductor
5310 enjoyment
5311 abdominal
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