settlement

set·tle·ment

noun \ˈse-t^əl-mənt\

Definition of SETTLEMENT

1

: the act or process of settling

2

a : an act of bestowing or giving possession under legal sanction

b : the sum, estate, or income secured to one by such a settlement

3

a : occupation by settlers

b : a place or region newly settled

c : a small village

4

: settlement house

5

: an agreement composing differences

6

: payment or adjustment of an account

Examples of SETTLEMENT

1. I got the house in the divorce settlement.
2. The parties have not been able to reach a settlement in the case.
3. We were hoping for a quick settlement of the dispute between the neighbors.
4. English settlements in North America.
5. This was the island's first colonial settlement.
6. They came upon the ruins of an ancient settlement.

First Known Use of SETTLEMENT

1648

Related to SETTLEMENT

Synonyms

accord, bargain, compact, contract, convention, covenant, deal, disposition, pact, agreement, understanding

Related Words

charter, treaty; binder, pledge, promise; alliance, association, entente, entente cordiale, league, partnership; acceptance, approval, assent, concurrence, consent, OK (or okay)

settlement

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

In law, a compromise or agreement between litigants to settle the matters in dispute between them in order to dispose of and conclude their litigation. Generally, as a result of the settlement, prosecution of the action is withdrawn or dismissed without any judgment being entered. The parties may, however, incorporate the terms of the settlement into a consent decree, recorded by the court. Most suits brought today are either withdrawn or settled.