settler

noun

set·​tler ˈse-tᵊl-ər How to pronounce settler (audio)
ˈset-lər
Synonyms of settlernext
1
: one that settles something
a settler of disputes
2
: someone who settles in a new region or colony
the first settlers of New England

Examples of settler in a Sentence

settlers learning to live in peace with the natives in 1889 Jane Addams, in an effort to provide Chicago's latest wave of settlers with much-needed services, founded the city's first settlement house
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What settler stole this sacred land and is now charging me for these healing waters? Gaby Iori january 27, Literary Hub, 27 Jan. 2026 The settlers spoke a Polynesian language, practiced Polynesian customs, and left descendants who continue to. Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026 Whipple and settlers were the newcomers in Minnesota. Elise Hammond, CNN Money, 23 Jan. 2026 In the 1700s, Dutch settlers arrived at Kalk Bay, and it was later occupied by British colonists who turned it into a major whaling center. Kate Bartlett, NPR, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for settler

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of settler was in 1598

Cite this Entry

“Settler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/settler. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

settler

noun
set·​tler ˈset-lər How to pronounce settler (audio)
-ᵊl-ər
: a person who settles in a new region : colonist

More from Merriam-Webster on settler

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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