Squalor: meaning, definitions and examples
๐๏ธ
squalor
[ หskwษหlษr ]
living conditions
Squalor refers to a state of extreme filth and degradation, typically arising from neglect or poverty. It describes conditions that are unclean and unhealthy, often associated with overcrowded and substandard housing. People living in squalor may face significant health risks and lack basic necessities. The term can also imply a moral degradation, highlighting deficiencies in living standards and human dignity.
Synonyms
degradation, dirtiness, filth, neglect, poverty.
Examples of usage
- The family lived in squalor, with trash piling up in every room.
- Squalor was evident in the abandoned buildings throughout the city.
- After the flood, many residents found themselves in squalor with no means to clean up.
- He wrote an article exposing the squalor of conditions in the shelter.
Translations
Translations of the word "squalor" in other languages:
๐ต๐น misรฉria
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคเคฆเคเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Elend
๐ฎ๐ฉ kekotoran
๐บ๐ฆ ัะฑะพะณัััั
๐ต๐ฑ nฤdza
๐ฏ๐ต ไธๆฝ
๐ซ๐ท misรจre
๐ช๐ธ miseria
๐น๐ท sefalet
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ถ๊ฒฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ููุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ bรญda
๐ธ๐ฐ bieda
๐จ๐ณ ่ดซๅฐ
๐ธ๐ฎ revลกฤina
๐ฎ๐ธ fรกtรฆkt
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบะตะดะตะนััะปัะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแฆแแ แแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ sษfalษt
๐ฒ๐ฝ miseria
Etymology
The term 'squalor' originates from the Latin word 'squalor', which means 'filth' or 'foulness'. This word itself derives from 'squalidus', meaning 'dirty' or 'filthy'. The concept has been used since at least the 14th century to describe miserable living conditions characterized by dirt and neglect. Over the centuries, it has taken on a broader meaning, representing not only physical conditions but also the associated feeling of despair and hopelessness resulting from such environments. In literature and social discourse, 'squalor' has often underscored discussions about poverty and the importance of proper living conditions, highlighting the need for social reform and humanitarian assistance.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #23,163, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 23160 throated
- 23161 raucous
- 23162 medicated
- 23163 squalor
- 23164 igniting
- 23165 garrisoned
- 23166 energizing
- ...