Squabbled: meaning, definitions and examples

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squabbled

 

[ ˈskwä-bəld ]

Verb
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.

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 origin

The word 'squabble' originates from the Middle English word 'squablen', which signifies to quarrel or argue. It is derived from an alteration of the earlier term 'squabble', dating back to the 15th century. The term's roots can be traced to the Scottish dialect, where 'squabble' indicated a dispute or disagreement. Over time, squabble grew in use, particularly in English literature, to represent trivial arguments typically characterized by their loud and heated nature. Interestingly, the word has retained its spirited connotation throughout the centuries, signifying not just disagreements but also a sense of frivolity in the argument. It reflects the human tendency to engage in conflict over minimal issues, capturing both the essence and entertaining side of squabbling.

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.