noun
squalor
SKWO-luh
Squalor (noun) means a filthy, degraded state, especially caused by poverty or neglect. Example: “The family lived in squalor after losing their home.”
noun
1
A filthy, degraded state, especially caused by poverty or neglect.
"The family lived in squalor after losing their home."
"The documentary showed the squalor of the abandoned tenements."
How to use squalor
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA state of dirt and neglect, usually linked to poverty.
Common pairings
live in squalor
abject squalor
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Word forms
- Plural
- squalors
Fill the gap
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The family lived in _____ after losing their home.
Etymology
From Latin squalor, "filthiness," from the same root as "squalid."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “squalor” mean?
The word “squalor” means a filthy, degraded state, especially caused by poverty or neglect. In plain terms, a state of dirt and neglect, usually linked to poverty.
How do you pronounce “squalor”?
“Squalor” is pronounced SKWO-luh (/ˈskwɑlɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “squalor” in a sentence?
Here is “squalor” used in a sentence: “The family lived in squalor after losing their home.”
What part of speech is “squalor”?
“Squalor” is a noun.
Where does the word “squalor” come from?
The word “squalor” comes from Latin. From Latin squalor, "filthiness," from the same root as "squalid.".
