Settle Meaning
Settle Definition & Usage
To establish a permanent residence in a particular location, often after a period of movement or uncertainty.
Examples
- "After years of traveling, they decided to settle in a small town in the countryside."
- "He settled in the city and started his own business."
- "They were looking for a place to settle down after their wedding."
- "Many immigrants seek to settle in cities that offer better economic opportunities."
- "The family settled near the beach, where they felt at peace."
To bring a dispute, argument, or conflict to a resolution, usually through negotiation or agreement.
Examples
- "They were able to settle their differences after a long discussion."
- "The management and union have agreed to settle the dispute over wages."
- "It took a few weeks to settle the terms of the contract."
- "We need to settle the matter before it escalates further."
- "The couple hired a mediator to help settle their divorce settlement."
To calm, stabilize, or bring a situation or emotion to a state of rest or order.
Examples
- "She took a few deep breaths to settle her nerves before the presentation."
- "The storm settled after a few hours, and the skies cleared."
- "He had a drink to settle his stomach after the meal."
- "It took several minutes for the crowd to settle after the announcement."
- "The loud noise from the construction site eventually settled down by evening."
To finalize a financial transaction or pay for a debt, bill, or settlement.
Examples
- "The company agreed to settle the claim for a large sum of money."
- "We need to settle the bill before we leave the restaurant."
- "She settled her debts after winning the lottery."
- "After months of negotiation, they finally settled the lawsuit out of court."
- "He settled the payment with the contractor once the work was finished."
Cultural Context
The word 'settle' has evolved through different meanings over centuries. Initially associated with establishing a permanent residence, it broadened to include the resolution of disputes and emotional calming. Its versatility makes it a central term in both everyday life and formal, transactional settings.
The Road to Peace
Story
The Road to Peace
In the small town of Greenhill, Sarah and James had been living a life of constant motion. They had traveled the world, seeking new adventures and opportunities. But as time passed, the thrill of exploration gave way to a desire for stability. One evening, after a long conversation, they decided it was time to settle down and make a home. The decision wasn’t easy, though. Their hearts longed for adventure, but their minds craved the peace that came with establishing roots. They found a charming house near a lake, and as they unpacked their things, Sarah marveled at how calming it felt to finally settle in. The quiet, the space—it was all so different from the hustle and bustle they had known before. However, their peace didn’t last long. One of their neighbors, Mr. Thompson, was constantly arguing with them about the property line. The disagreement had become quite heated, and it seemed like there was no way to resolve it. After weeks of tension, Sarah decided to take matters into her own hands. She invited Mr. Thompson over for tea and, after much talking, they were able to settle their differences. They agreed on the property line, and the animosity faded into mutual respect. That evening, as Sarah sat on the porch, sipping her tea, she thought about how much had changed. They had come from a life of uncertainty and motion, always seeking the next big thing. But now, they had found a place to call their own. A place to settle down, settle in, and finally, settle their hearts. The road to peace, Sarah realized, was not just about finding a physical place to settle but also about resolving the unsettled parts of the heart and mind.
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