settle1
v.
- resolve or reach an agreement or decision about (an argument or problem).
▸
(settle for)
accept or agree to (something less than satisfactory).
-
(often settle down)
adopt a more steady or secure style of life, especially in a permanent job and home.
▸
(settle down to)
apply oneself to.
▸become or make calmer or quieter.
- sit or come to rest in a comfortable position.
▸begin to feel comfortable in a new situation.
- fall or come down on to a surface.
▸(of suspended particles) sink slowly in a liquid to form sediment.
▸(of an object) gradually sink down under its own weight.
▸(of a ship) begin to sink.
- pay (a debt or account).
▸
(settle something on)
give money or property to (someone) through a deed of settlement or a will.
- dated silence (a troublesome person).
Derivative
Etymology
OE setlan ‘to seat, place’, from settle2.
settle2
n.
a wooden bench with a high back and arms, typically incorporating a box under the seat.
Etymology
OE setl ‘a place to sit’, of Gmc origin; rel. to L. sella ‘seat’, also to sit.