noun
settlement
A community established in a place, or the act of establishing one.
A small settlement stands near the mouth of the river.
Etymology
Settle means to establish a lasting place of residence. The noun names either that establishing action or the community produced by it.
More examples
- The railroad encourages settlement in the region.
- Several farming settlements dot the valley.
- Families in the remote settlement share a single school.
Forms
settlement · settlements
settle verb — To establish a home or community.