squalor
UK: ˈskwɒlə | US: ˈskwɑːlər
n. a state of extreme dirtiness and degradation, often due to neglect or poverty
squalor = squal<filth> + or<noun suffix>
- squal<filth>: From Latin squalor (filth, dirt), derived from squalere (to be filthy or rough).
- or<noun suffix>: A Latin suffix forming nouns indicating a state or condition (e.g., terror, error).
Etymology Origin:
The word squalor traces back to Latin squalor, which described physical filth or moral degradation. The root squalere also implied roughness (like unkempt hair or surfaces), later narrowing to emphasize neglect and dirtiness. The suffix -or solidified its meaning as a noun denoting a state of decay. Over time, English adopted it to describe environments or living conditions marked by extreme neglect.
The abandoned house was filled with squalor, its walls covered in mold.
Refugees often endure squalor in overcrowded camps.
The documentary exposed the squalor of urban slums.
He vowed to escape the squalor of his childhood neighborhood.
The once-grand hotel now lies in squalor, its halls littered with debris.