Settled
'setld
Definitions
4 meaningsTo reach a resolution or agreement regarding a dispute, disagreement, or transaction.
'setld
To resolve or conclude a dispute or matter.
The two countries settled their border dispute through negotiation.
💡 Simply: Imagine you and your friend are arguing about who gets the last cookie. When you agree to split it, you've *settled* the argument! It means you found a solution.
👶 For kids: When you settle something, you're making a decision or finding a solution that everyone agrees on. Like settling a disagreement about a toy.
More Examples
We settled the bill at the restaurant.
The company settled with its employees over the pay dispute.
How It's Used
"The lawyers finally settled the case out of court."
"They settled on a price for the acquisition."
To move to and live in a new place, often permanently; to establish residence or a base of operations.
'setld
To come to rest or establish oneself in a new place or situation.
The family decided to settle down in a quiet town.
💡 Simply: Imagine moving to a new city and starting your life there. When you move and make it your home, you've *settled* in! You made a new home for yourself and your family.
👶 For kids: When you settle down in a place, it means you're moving there to live and make it your home! Like when a bird builds a nest.
More Examples
The immigrants settled in the new country and built a new life.
After years of traveling, he wanted to settle and start a family.
How It's Used
"Pioneers settled the American West."
"They decided to settle in the countryside."
To become calm, stable, or quiet; to become less agitated or turbulent.
'setld
To become calm or still.
The crowd settled down after the announcement.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're really excited, like before a birthday party. Then, when the party starts you're having so much fun that you start to feel calm and happy and *settle* in.
👶 For kids: When things settle down, it means they become calm and quiet! Like when you stop jumping up and down.
More Examples
The river's waters settled after the rain.
The emotional turmoil gradually settled, and she felt at peace.
How It's Used
"The dust settled after the storm."
"She settled her nerves with deep breaths."
Having established a place to live and a stable lifestyle.
'setld
Having established a home or place to live.
They're a settled couple, enjoying their quiet life.
💡 Simply: If you *settled* down, it means you have a house, you're happy, and everything feels good. Like having a place to call home.
👶 For kids: When you're settled, it means you have a home and you are happy! Like sleeping in your own bed.
More Examples
He has a settled lifestyle, with a routine and a home.
Now that they've moved to a new city, they are settled down.
How It's Used
"Now that they're married, they're settled."
"She's a settled person with a good life."
Synonyms
Agree
Conclude
Decide
Determine
Resolve
Establish
Locate
Reside
Calm
Quiet
Domesticated
Established
Rooted
Antonyms
Argue
Disagree
Dispute
Depart
Leave
Migrate
Disturb
Excite
Nomadic
Restless
From Middle English *setlen*, from Old English *setlan* ('to settle, seat'), a causative form of *sittan* ('to sit').
The word 'settle' has been used since the 13th century with meanings related to establishing and resolving matters.
Memory tip
Think of settling a debate - bringing it to a satisfying conclusion.