settled etymology

Etymology of "Settled"

The word "settled" originates from the Middle English term "settelen," which evolved from the Old English word "setlan." The root of "setlan" is the Proto-Germanic verb *satlijaną, meaning "to make to sit."

Meaning and Origin

The primary meaning of "settled" is to become stable, fixed, or established. It can refer to a physical position or state, as in "The water had settled into a still pool," or to a more abstract or figurative sense, as in "She settled into a comfortable routine."

Extended Meanings

Over time, the meaning of "settled" has expanded to include:

  • To establish or fix: As in "The company settled on a merger agreement."
  • To make a permanent residence: As in "The family settled in the new house."
  • To resolve or determine: As in "The jury settled on a verdict."
  • To pay or discharge a debt: As in "The account was settled in full."
  • To tranquilize or calm: As in "The medicine settled her nerves."

Grammatical Usage

"Settled" can be used as a verb or an adjective. As a verb, it is usually transitive, taking a direct object. As an adjective, it describes something that is stable, fixed, or established.

Examples of Usage

  • "After the storm, the wind gradually settled down." (Transitive verb)
  • "The town was settled by European colonists in the 17th century." (Passive voice)
  • "The settled population of the island is estimated at around 1,000." (Adjective)
  • "We have a settled agreement on the terms of the contract." (Participle)

settled relate terms

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