settlements
|set-tle-ment|
/ˈsɛtəlmənt/
(settlement)
establishing a place or finalizing an agreement
Etymology
'settlement' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'setl' (a 'seat') and the verb 'settan'/'settlan' (to cause to sit or place), where 'setl' meant 'seat' and 'settan' meant 'to place or make sit'.
'settlement' changed from Old English forms such as 'setl'/'settlan' through Middle English 'setlement' and eventually became the modern English word 'settlement'.
Initially it referred to a 'seat' or the act of placing/setting something; over time it evolved to mean both a 'place where people settle' and figuratively 'an agreement that makes a matter settled'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a place where people establish a community; a village or colony.
Archaeologists uncovered several ancient settlements along the river.
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Noun 2
an agreement that resolves a dispute or legal case (often reached without trial).
The company reached settlements in several employment lawsuits.
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Noun 3
the payment or discharge of a debt or claim.
After negotiations the bank arranged settlements with several creditors.
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Noun 4
in finance and commerce, the completion of a transaction, such as transfer of securities or payment (the process by which obligations are fulfilled).
Securities settlements normally occur within two business days after the trade.
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Last updated: 2026/01/04 05:17