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Squatter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squatter

[ˈskwɒtə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

A person who unlawfully occupies an uninhabited building or unused land.

Synonyms

intruder, occupant, trespasser.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squatter

Used when referring to a person who lives in a place without the legal right to do so, usually because the property is vacant.

  • The abandoned building was taken over by squatters.
  • They were evicted after living as squatters for several months.
trespasser

Describes someone who enters someone else's property without permission, generally implying a violation of private property laws.

  • The farmer put up a sign to warn trespassers to keep out.
  • The park ranger confronted the trespasser who was camping without permission.
occupant

Refers to a person who legally lives or resides in a property, such as a tenant or owner.

  • The fire drill required all occupants to leave the building.
  • The previous occupant left the apartment in good condition.
intruder

Applies to someone who enters a place without permission, whether it's a house, office, or other property, and can imply a threat or criminal intent.

  • The alarm went off when the intruder broke into the house.
  • She called the police as soon as she noticed the intruder in her backyard.

Examples of usage

  • Squatters took over the abandoned warehouse.
  • The government has been trying to evict the squatters from the vacant lot.
  • The squatter claimed adverse possession of the property.
  • The squatter refused to leave the premises.
  • The squatter built a makeshift shelter on the land.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A person who lives in a building without the legal right to do so, often without paying rent.

Synonyms

freeloader, illegal occupant, unauthorized resident.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
squatter

This term describes someone who occupies an abandoned or uninhabited building or land without legal permission. It can be used in legal discussions or when talking about housing issues.

  • The building has been taken over by squatters.
  • The city is trying to address the squatter problem in abandoned houses.
illegal occupant

This is a formal term used in legal and official settings to describe someone who occupies a property without legal right or permission.

  • The landlord discovered an illegal occupant in the apartment.
  • City officials are working to remove illegal occupants from the property.
unauthorized resident

This term is often used in a legal or formal context to describe someone living in a place without official permission. It is less harsh than 'illegal occupant' but still implies a lack of authorization.

  • The building manager found an unauthorized resident staying in the apartment.
  • Measures are being taken to address the issue of unauthorized residents in the complex.
freeloader

This word is often used to describe someone who takes advantage of others' generosity without giving anything in return. It carries a negative connotation and is common in informal settings.

  • He’s just a freeloader who never pays for anything.
  • I’m tired of him being a freeloader at all our parties.

Examples of usage

  • The squatter in the apartment refused to leave.
  • Squatters were living in the foreclosed house.
  • The landlord had to deal with squatters in the abandoned building.
  • The authorities were called to remove the squatters from the property.
  • The squatter was evicted from the premises.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Perspective

  • Many countries have laws regarding squatting, including rights for squatters after they occupy a property for a certain amount of time, known as 'adverse possession.'
  • In some areas, property owners must go through a legal process to remove squatters, adding complexity to property rights.

Cultural Context

  • Squatting has been both a form of protest against housing policies and a way for homeless individuals to find shelter.
  • In urban settings, squatter communities sometimes create vibrant cultures, including art and shared resources.

Historical Significance

  • During the Great Depression in the United States, many families squatted on abandoned homes and land as they sought shelter and survival.
  • In post-World War II Europe, squatting became common due to housing shortages, prompting changes in housing policies.

Social Dynamics

  • Squatting often brings attention to social issues, such as housing inequality and urban gentrification.
  • Many squatters engage in community-building activities, transforming abandoned spaces into communal areas for gatherings or gardens.

Origin of 'squatter'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originated from the Dutch word 'squatten', which means to sit or crouch.
  • In the early 17th century, it began to describe individuals or families who settled on unused land without owning it.

The term 'squatter' originated in the late 18th century, derived from the verb 'squat', meaning to crouch or sit on the heels. Over time, it evolved to describe someone who occupies a space without permission or legal right. The concept of squatting has been a part of various social movements and historical contexts, often associated with housing issues and property rights.

See also: squat, squatting.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,824, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.