How to Memorize

squalid - dirty

Analysis

Something ‘squalid’ is filthy and in a bad condition. It is usually in such a state due to neglect or a lack of financial resources as opposed to that being its natural condition. It can also, less commonly, be used to refer to something that is squalid in a more figurative way, particularly with regards to a lack of moral standards.

Example(s)

1. After Mike lost his job, he ended up living in a cramped, squalid apartment in a rough part of town as it was all he could afford.

2. I couldn’t believe the squalidness of the hospital I was taken to. The whole building was in a state of total disrepair.

3. That cheap publicity stunt was nothing more than a squalid attempt by the organization to cover its terrible environmental record.