squalor

noun

squa·​lor ˈskwä-lər How to pronounce squalor (audio)
also ˈskwā-
or ˈskwȯ-
Synonyms of squalor
: the quality or state of being squalid

Examples of squalor in a Sentence

The family was living in squalor. I was shocked by the squalor of their surroundings.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And while these tenants paid their rent month after month, some of them up to $900 a month to live in squalor. — Nikki Dementri, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 The children reportedly lived in squalor and weren’t enrolled in school. — Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 27 June 2026 But does the vitality mask the squalor or the squalor the vitality? — Spin Team, SPIN, 20 Apr. 2026 Authorities say all of the animals were found living in squalor. — Grace Bellinghausen, Sun Sentinel, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for squalor

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from squalēre

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of squalor was in 1621

Rhymes for squalor

See All Rhymes for squalor

Browse Nearby Words

Squaloidei
squalor
Squalus
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Squalor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/squalor. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

squalor

noun
squa·​lor ˈskwäl-ər How to pronounce squalor (audio)
: filthy or degraded conditions resulting from neglect or lack of money

More from Merriam-Webster on squalor

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for squalor

Nglish: Translation of squalor for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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