adjective

squalid

SKWAH-lid/ˈskwɑːlɪd/

Filthy and neglected.

A dirty basin catches drips from a pipe in the squalid room.

A sparse, visibly inhabited room in severe neglect: a thin patched mattress beside damp, peeling plaster, a leaking pipe dripping into a dirty basin, and accumulated grime, spoiled scraps and unwashed dishes.

Etymology

squalidLatinrough, coated with dirt, filthy

Latin squalidus described something rough or coated with dirt. That physical image underlies the English sense of filth and neglect, especially in poor living conditions.

In context

Storytime Haven538:52

London closed in on her again, but this time in a more squalid quarter, a wilderness of dirty narrow streets

🌑 The Moon Rock 🌒 | A Haunting Tale of Mystery and Ambition by Arthur J. Rees

More examples

Inspectors find families living in squalid conditions without running water.
The squalid apartment reeks of garbage and has mold covering the walls.
Volunteers clear rotting food and trash from the squalid shelter.

Forms

squalid

squalor noun — A state of filth and neglect.

squalidly adverb — In a filthy and neglected manner.

Similar words

filthy: Emphasizes heavy dirt without necessarily implying prolonged neglect.
dingy: Suggests dull, drab dirtiness rather than severe filth and neglect.