Definition of squalid

The word "squalid" has its roots in the Old French word "esquaille," which means "unpleasant" or "repulsive." This word was derived from the Latin word "squalidus," meaning "dirty" or "unkempt." The Latin word is likely derived from the verb "squalere," which means "to become dirty" or "to degenerate." The word "squalid" has been in use in English since the 15th century, initially meaning "dirty" or "filthy." Over time, its meaning expanded to include connotations of poverty, neglect, and unkemptness. Today, "squalid" is often used to describe a place or situation that is dirty, rundown, and generally unpleasant. For example, one might describe a slum as "squalid" or describe a dirty and disorganized room as "squalid."