verb
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squander
SKWOND-uh
Squander (verb) means to waste money, time, or an opportunity carelessly. Example: “He squandered his inheritance on bad investments.”
verb
1
To waste money, time, or an opportunity carelessly.
"He squandered his inheritance on bad investments."
"They squandered their lead in the second half of the game."
How to use squander
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo waste something valuable — money, time, or a chance — through carelessness.
Easily confused with
squandered
Common pairings
squander an opportunity
squander money
squander a lead
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- squanders
- Past tense
- squandered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ his inheritance on bad investments.
Etymology
First recorded in the late 1500s meaning "to spend recklessly"; origin uncertain, possibly a blend of "scatter" and "wander."
Class of 1500
squander joined the language around 1500.
See the full Class of 1500 →
Related words
Rhymes for squander
See all rhymes for squander →Frequently asked questions
What does “squander” mean?
The word “squander” means to waste money, time, or an opportunity carelessly. In plain terms, to waste something valuable — money, time, or a chance — through carelessness.
How do you pronounce “squander”?
“Squander” is pronounced SKWOND-uh (/ˈskwɑn.dɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “squander” in a sentence?
Here is “squander” used in a sentence: “He squandered his inheritance on bad investments.”
What part of speech is “squander”?
“Squander” is a verb.
Where does the word “squander” come from?
The word “squander” dates back to around 1500. First recorded in the late 1500s meaning "to spend recklessly"; origin uncertain, possibly a blend of "scatter" and "wander.".
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