Extremely dirty, filthy, and unpleasant, often used to describe deteriorated living conditions or morally repugnant behavior.
From Latin 'squalidus,' derived from 'squalere' (to be covered with dirt or be stiff). The Romans used this term to describe both physical filth and moral corruption.
Charles Dickens's descriptions of squalid Victorian slums were so visceral that they actually changed laws—his writing literally triggered housing reforms. This shows how descriptive language can become a form of social action, turning readers' disgust into political change.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.