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Definition of squalid

squalid

/ˈskwɑː.lɪd/
squal · id
Adverb:squalidly
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squalid Lexical Profile

squalid Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Extremely dirty, unpleasant, and run-down, especially as a result of poverty or neglect.

Example

"The charity worked tirelessly to improve the squalid living conditions in the overcrowded tenements."

2

Showing or involving a contemptible lack of moral standards; sordid or base.

Example

"The investigative journalist exposed the squalid details of the political corruption scandal."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for squalid

• Nearby Words

squad
squaddie
squadron
squalid
squalidly
squall
squally

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin squalidus ('rough, caked with dirt, filthy'), derived from the verb squalere ('to be rough, stiff, or encrusted with dirt').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Squalid. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/squalid
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