settle
SEH-tuhl
Settle (verb) means to resolve a dispute, disagreement, or debt, often by reaching an agreement. Example: “The two companies settled the lawsuit out of court.”
verb
1
To resolve a dispute, disagreement, or debt, often by reaching an agreement.
"The two companies settled the lawsuit out of court."
"They finally settled their differences over dinner."
"The neighbours agreed to settle the argument over the fence peacefully."
2
To make a home or establish oneself permanently in a place.
"They settled in a small village after years of traveling."
"The family settled in Canada in the 1990s."
"After university, she hoped to settle somewhere near the sea."
3
To become calm, still, or come to rest.
"The dust finally settled after the demolition."
"Give the tea a moment to settle before pouring."
"The baby began to settle once the lights were turned down."
How to use settle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo resolve something, to make a permanent home somewhere, or to become calm and still.
Common pairings
settle a dispute
settle down
settle in
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Word forms
- Plural
- settles
- Third person singular
- settles
- Past tense
- settled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The two companies _____ the lawsuit out of court.
Etymology
From Old English setlan ("to seat, put to rest"), related to setl ("seat"); merged over time with a separate verb meaning "to reconcile."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for settle
See all rhymes for settle →Frequently asked questions
What does “settle” mean?
The word “settle” means to resolve a dispute, disagreement, or debt, often by reaching an agreement. In plain terms, to resolve something, to make a permanent home somewhere, or to become calm and still.
How do you pronounce “settle”?
“Settle” is pronounced SEH-tuhl (/ˈsɛtəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “settle” in a sentence?
Here is “settle” used in a sentence: “The two companies settled the lawsuit out of court.”
What is another word for “settle”?
Words with a similar meaning to “settle” include adjust, arrange, compose, decide, determine and establish.
What is the opposite of “settle”?
The opposite of “settle” — its antonyms — are remove, disturb, wander and agitate.
What part of speech is “settle”?
“Settle” is a verb.
Where does the word “settle” come from?
The word “settle” comes from Old English. From Old English setlan ("to seat, put to rest"), related to setl ("seat"); merged over time with a separate verb meaning "to reconcile.".
Is “settle” a common word?
“Settle” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between 'settle' and 'resolve'?
Both can mean to bring a dispute or problem to an end, but settle often implies reaching an agreement or compromise between parties, especially over a debt or disagreement. Resolve emphasises finding a definite answer or solution and can apply to problems that do not involve two opposing sides.
What is the difference between 'settle' and 'settle down'?
'Settle' on its own often means to resolve a dispute or debt, or to establish a permanent home. 'Settle down' is a phrasal verb that usually means to become calmer, adopt a more stable and routine lifestyle, or start a long-term home and family.
When do you use 'settle in' versus 'settle down'?
'Settle in' means to become comfortable and familiar with a new home, job, or situation. 'Settle down' means to adopt a calmer, more permanent lifestyle, or to grow quiet after being active or excited.
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