Simple Definition of squalor

from our Learner's Dictionary

squalor

noun

ˈskwɑːlɚ

: very bad and dirty conditions

The family was living in squalor.

I was shocked by the squalor of their surroundings.

Cite this Entry

Style

“Squalor.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/squalor. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.

Copy Citation

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

pantheon

Listen to the pronunciation of pantheon

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is it 'nerve-racking' or 'nerve-wracking'?

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Democracy or Republic: What's the difference?

Popular in Wordplay

The Longest Long Words List

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

Ten Words Ending with a Silent ‘T’

Even More Bird Names that Sound Like Insults (and Sometimes Are)

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

The Longest Long Words List

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More