Squalider: meaning, definitions and examples
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squalider
[ˈskwɒlɪd ]
Definition
general use
Squalid refers to something that is extremely dirty and unpleasant, often as a result of neglect or poverty. It describes living conditions that are filthy, being characterized by a lack of cleanliness and sanitation. Typically, squalid environments can be found in places with inadequate housing, poor facilities, or where hygiene is not maintained. The term can also have a figurative use, describing morally repugnant situations or behaviors.
Synonyms
deplorable, dirty, filthy, grotty, wretched.
Examples of usage
- The family lived in squalid conditions, barely able to afford food.
- He was appalled by the squalid state of the abandoned building.
- The documentary highlighted the squalid living conditions of the homeless.
- Her squalid behavior tarnished her reputation.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term is derived from the Latin word 'squalidus', meaning 'filthy' or 'rough'.
- Squalid has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe filthy living conditions.
- A related word, 'squalor', emphasizes the extreme dirtiness and neglect found in certain environments.
Literature
- Authors like Charles Dickens often used squalid settings to highlight social inequalities and living conditions.
- In his works, the contrast between squalid living situations and rich lifestyles becomes a critical theme.
- Contemporary writers similarly employ the term to evoke empathy for characters struggling in poverty.
Social Issues
- Squalid living conditions are often linked to homelessness and lack of access to basic sanitation.
- Urban areas in many parts of the world face issues of squalor due to economic disparity.
- Efforts to combat squalid living often focus on community programs designed to improve housing conditions.
Psychology
- Living in squalid conditions can have severe psychological effects, including stress and depression.
- Research shows that environments perceived as dirty can impact mental well-being and social behavior.
- Individuals in squalor might experience feelings of hopelessness or low self-esteem due to their circumstances.
Environmental Studies
- Squalid conditions often lead to public health concerns, as unsanitary environments harbor disease.
- Efforts to rehabilitate squalid neighborhoods include improving infrastructure and sanitation access.
- Studies indicate that improving the living conditions directly correlates with better community health outcomes.
Translations
Translations of the word "squalider" in other languages:
🇵🇹 squalido
- miserável
- imundo
🇮🇳 गंदा
- घटिया
- गरीब
🇩🇪 schäbig
- dreckig
- armselig
🇮🇩 kotor
- kumuh
- miskin
🇺🇦 сумний
- брудний
- убогий
🇵🇱 brudny
- nędzny
- skromny
🇯🇵 汚い (きたない)
- みすぼらしい
- 貧しい (まずしい)
🇫🇷 sale
- miteux
- misérable
🇪🇸 sucio
- miserable
- paupérrimo
🇹🇷 kirli
- sefil
- perişan
🇰🇷 더러운
- 초라한
- 가난한
🇸🇦 قذر
- بائس
- فقير
🇨🇿 špinavý
- ubohý
- zanedbaný
🇸🇰 špinavý
- ubohý
- zanedbaný
🇨🇳 肮脏的
- 悲惨的
- 贫穷的
🇸🇮 umazan
- obupan
- revščina
🇮🇸 óhreinur
- fátækur
- misera
🇰🇿 лас-лас
- кедей
- жұпы
🇬🇪 აბალახული
- ღარიბი
- ჭუჭყიანი
🇦🇿 çirkli
- miskin
- kasıb
🇲🇽 sucio
- miserable
- pobre
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #43,823, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.
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