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Translate files Squatter
/ˈskwɒtər/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A person who unlawfully occupies an uninhabited building or land.
The squatter refused to leave the abandoned house despite multiple eviction notices.
A person who settles on land or property without legal right.
The area saw an increase in squatters after the economic downturn made housing unaffordable.
A person who occupies a space or property that they do not own or rent.
Local authorities are trying to address the issue of squatters in the city park.
Etymology
Early 18th century: from the verb squat, which originated from the Middle Dutch 'squatten'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
squatter's rights:
Legal rights that a squatter may have after occupying a property for a certain period.
squatting:
The act of occupying an abandoned or unoccupied area of land or a building.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
A person living in a place without paying rent.
He's a total squatter—hasn't paid rent in months.
Someone who takes advantage of vacant properties.
That building is full of squatters just chilling in there.