Meaning & Definition of word "Squatter"

Squatter

/ˈskwɒtər/

noun:

  • 1. A person who unlawfully occupies an uninhabited building or land.
    • Example: The squatter refused to leave the abandoned house despite multiple eviction notices.
  • 2. A person who settles on land or property without legal right.
    • Example: The area saw an increase in squatters after the economic downturn made housing unaffordable.
  • 3. A person who occupies a space or property that they do not own or rent.
    • Example: 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

trespass:

To enter someone's land or property without permission.

occupy:

To take up space or reside in a place temporarily.

Slang Meanings of squatter

Meaning: A person living in a place without paying rent.

Example Sentence: He's a total squatter—hasn't paid rent in months.

Meaning: Someone who takes advantage of vacant properties.

Example Sentence: That building is full of squatters just chilling in there.