Settling

/ˈsɛt.lɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of resolving a dispute or situation.
The settling of the disagreement took longer than expected.
A process in which a substance gradually sinks or becomes compact.
The settling of the sediment at the bottom of the tank was evident after a few days.
verb
The act of resolving or reaching an agreement about something.
After much discussion, they finally reached a settling on the terms of the contract.
The act of establishing a residence in a new area.
The pioneers were settling in the new territory, hoping to build a better life.
The process of something coming to rest or becoming stable.
After the storm, the dust began settling and visibility improved.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'assoteler', from Latin 'solutio', related to 'set' as to place in a settled position.

Common Phrases and Expressions

settling down
To begin to live a quieter, more stable life, often in one place.
settling in
Getting comfortable in a new environment.
settling the score
To resolve a dispute or conflict.

Related Words

settle
To resolve or reach an agreement.
settlement
The act of settling, or an official agreement.
settler
A person who moves to a new area to live.

Slang Meanings

To compromise on something less than ideal.
I don’t want to settle for a mediocre job when I can find something great.
To become comfortable with a situation.
After a few weeks, I finally settled into my new place.