squatter

1 of 2

verb

squat·​ter ˈskwä-tər How to pronounce squatter (audio)
squattered; squattering; squatters

intransitive verb

: to go along through or as if through water
ducks squattering to the shore

squatter

2 of 2

noun

: 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

Examples of squatter in a Sentence

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.
Verb
Spenard is named for the bootlegger and squatter Joe Spenard. David Reamer, Anchorage Daily News, 1 June 2020
Noun
In the upcoming ninth season of Rehab Addict, which premieres on June 24, Curtis restores both that Wyoming home and a troubled Detroit property that had been invaded by squatters. Erin Clements, People.com, 24 June 2025 Eventually, Velazquez paid the squatters $4,300 to move out, regaining control of his property in March. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for squatter

Word History

Etymology

Verb

imitative

First Known Use

Verb

1785, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of squatter was in 1785

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Squatter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/squatter. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

squatter

noun
squat·​ter
ˈskwät-ər
1
: one that squats
2
a
: one that settles on land without right or title or payment of rent
b
: one that settles on public land under government regulation with the purpose of acquiring title

Legal Definition

squatter

noun
squat·​ter
ˈskwä-tər
: 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.

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