Dictionary

1squabble

noun squab·ble \ˈskwä-bəl\

Definition of SQUABBLE

:  a noisy altercation or quarrel usually over petty matters
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Origin of SQUABBLE

probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Swedish dialect skvabbel dispute
First Known Use: 1602

Synonym Discussion of SQUABBLE

quarrel, wrangle, altercation, squabble mean a noisy dispute usually marked by anger. quarrel implies heated verbal contention, stressing strained or severed relations which may persist beyond the contention <a quarrel nearly destroyed the relationship>. wrangle suggests undignified and often futile disputation with a noisy insistence on differing opinions <wrangle interminably about small issues>. altercation implies fighting with words as the chief weapon, although it may also connote blows <a loud public altercation>. squabble stresses childish and unseemly dispute over petty matters, but it need not imply bitterness or anger <a brief squabble over what to do next>.

Rhymes with SQUABBLE

2squabble

intransitive verb

: to argue loudly about things that are not important

squab·bledsquab·bling \-b(ə-)liŋ\

Full Definition of SQUABBLE

:  to quarrel noisily and usually over petty matters
squab·bler \-b(ə-)lər\ noun

First Known Use of SQUABBLE

1604

Rhymes with SQUABBLE

SQUABBLE Defined for Kids

1squabble

noun squab·ble \ˈskwä-bəl\

Definition of SQUABBLE for Kids

:  a noisy quarrel usually over something unimportant

2squabble

verb
squab·bledsquab·bling

Definition of SQUABBLE for Kids

:  to quarrel noisily for little or no reason

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Next Word in the Dictionary: squabblyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: squabbishAll Words Near: squabble
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