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squatter

verb squat·ter \ ˈskwä-tər \
|Updated on: 18 Jul 2018

Definition of squatter

squattered; squattering; squatters
intransitive verb
: to go along through or as if through water
  • ducks squattering to the shore

Origin and Etymology of squatter

imitative

2

squatter

noun

Definition of squatter

: one that squats: such as
a : one that settles on property without right or title or payment of rent
b : one that settles on public land under government regulation with the purpose of acquiring title

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Recent Examples of squatter from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'squatter.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of squatter

1788

in the meaning defined above

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SQUATTER Defined for English Language Learners

squatter

noun

Definition of squatter for English Language Learners

  • : someone who lives in a building or on land without the permission of the owner and without paying : someone who squats

Law Dictionary

squatter

noun squat·ter \ ˈskwä-tər \

legal Definition of squatter

: a person who occupies real property without a claim of right or title
Note: In most jurisdictions, a squatter cannot gain title to land through adverse possession because adverse possession requires possession of the property under a claim of right or color of title.

Learn More about squatter

  1. See words that rhyme with squatter Spanish Central: Translation of squatter Britannica English: Translation of squatter for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about squatter

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