Settler

Definition

A settler is an individual who moves with the intention of establishing a permanent residence in a new region or country, often uninhabited or sparsely inhabited, and sometimes with the support of a government or sponsoring organization.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛtlər/
• Respelling: SET-lər (with "SET" as in "pet," and "lər" as in the ending of "tumbler")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛtlə/
• Respelling: SET-luh (with "SET" as in "pet," and "luh" similar to the ending of "tumbler" but without the rhotic 'r')

In both dialects, "settler" is pronounced with the initial "set" sound followed by a syllable that ends in a sound similar to "ler" or "luh," depending on the presence or absence of the rhotic 'r' characteristic of most American and non-rhotic British accents, respectively. The primary stress is on the first syllable, "SET."

Etymology

The term "settler" is derived from the Middle English word "setlen," which means to establish or resolve. The suffix "-er" is used to denote someone who performs a specified action, thus forming a word that signifies an individual who establishes a new community.

Derivatives

• Settle
• Settlement
• Resettle
• Resettlement
• Unsettled

Synonyms

• Colonist
• Pioneer
• Immigrant

Antonyms

• Native
• Migrant
• Itinerant

Usage

The term "settler" is used predominantly in historical and geographical contexts to describe individuals or groups who establish new communities. It can refer to a range of scenarios from the early pioneers and colonists in various parts of the world to modern individuals moving to sparsely populated areas.

Related Terms

• Colonization
• Migration
• Homesteading
• Frontier
• Diaspora

Detailed Definition

Noun

• An individual who moves to a new region, either alone or with a group, with the intention of establishing a permanent residence and community. Settlers often migrate to sparsely populated or uninhabited areas to start new lives, cultivate land, and contribute to the growth of the region.