Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Squabbled: meaning, definitions and examples

💢
Add to dictionary

squabbled

 

[ˈskwä-bəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

argument, dispute

To squabble means to engage in a noisy quarrel or argument, often over trivial matters. It typically involves a back-and-forth exchange of insults or disputes, lacking any serious intent. Squabbling can occur among siblings, friends, or even coworkers, often leading to a tense but temporary conflict. The term suggests a somewhat childish or petty nature to the disagreement, emphasizing the lack of substance in the disputes.

Synonyms

argue, bicker, dispute, quarrel.

Examples of usage

  • The children squabbled over who got the last cookie.
  • During the meeting, the team squabbled about the project's direction.
  • Siblings often squabble about the remote control.
  • The two cats squabbled over the sunny spot on the floor.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the mid-16th century, combining elements that suggest angry or noisy quarrels.
  • It is likely derived from the Old English word 'cwealdan', which means to kill or quench, reflecting how arguments can feel intense.
  • The playful sound of the word mimics the noise of people fighting.

Pop Culture

  • The term is commonly used in cartoons to depict comical bickering between characters, often leading to funny outcomes.
  • In literary works, squabbles often serve to highlight character flaws or create tension in family dynamics.
  • Movies frequently show siblings squabbling as a way to depict relatable family life.

Psychology

  • Frequent squabbling can indicate underlying issues in relationships, such as unresolved conflicts or communication problems.
  • Psychologists note that small arguments may strengthen relationships by enabling partners to express their feelings.
  • Children learn important social skills through healthy squabbling, as it teaches them negotiation and conflict resolution.

Literature

  • Many classic novels feature characters that squabble, reflecting societal norms and personal conflicts of the time.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, fights between characters often serve to propel the plot and deepen the audience's understanding of relationships.
  • Notable children’s books often use squabbles to teach moral lessons or show the importance of friendship.

Translations

Translations of the word "squabbled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discutido

🇮🇳 झगड़ा किया

🇩🇪 gestritten

🇮🇩 bertengkar

🇺🇦 посперечалися

🇵🇱 kłócił się

🇯🇵 口論した

🇫🇷 disputé

🇪🇸 discutido

🇹🇷 tartıştı

🇰🇷 다툼

🇸🇦 تنازع

🇨🇿 hádat se

🇸🇰 hádali

🇨🇳 争吵

🇸🇮 prepiral

🇮🇸 deila

🇰🇿 дауласты

🇬🇪 კამათობდნენ

🇦🇿 mübahisə etdi

🇲🇽 discutido

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,766, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.