# squalor

/ˈskwɑɫɝ/ (US) · /skwˈɒlɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/squalor
Updated: 2026-10-12

## Definition

a state of being extremely dirty and unpleasant, usually because of poverty or neglect.

For teachers: the state of being extremely dirty and unpleasant, typically as a result of poverty or neglect.

## Examples

- The family lived in squalor before they found a new home.
- After the flood, many residents were forced to live in squalor while waiting for government assistance to arrive.
- The investigative report exposed the hidden squalor of the city's tenements, detailing the crumbling infrastructure and lack of basic sanitation provided to the tenants.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows the preposition 'in' to describe a living condition.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.