settlement
UK: ˈsɛtlmənt | US: ˈsɛtlmənt
n. the act or process of settling
n. a formal agreement resolving a dispute
n. a place where people establish a community
The word "settlement" derives from the Old English "setlan" (to seat or place firmly), rooted in the Proto-Germanic *satlijaną (to settle). The suffix "-ment" (from Latin "-mentum") was added in Middle English to form nouns denoting actions or results. The term evolved from the literal sense of "fixing in place" (e.g., settling land) to abstract meanings like resolving disputes or establishing communities.
The treaty led to a peaceful settlement of the conflict.
Early settlers built a small settlement near the river.
The court announced a financial settlement between the parties.
Archaeological findings reveal an ancient Viking settlement.
The government encouraged the settlement of rural areas.