squabble
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈskwɒbəl/
KK: /ˈskwɑbəl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To have a noisy argument or disagreement about something that is not very important.
Example
The children began to squabble over who would get the last piece of cake.
Tense Forms
Past: squabbled
Past Participle: squabbled
Conversation
Did you hear them squabble over who should pick the movie?
Yeah, it was pretty silly; they always argue about the same things.
I know! It's just a movie, but they really love to squabble about it.
Right? I guess it keeps things interesting, but come on!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
argue
bicker
quarrel
Antonyms
agree
concur
reconcile
noun
Definition
A loud argument or disagreement, often about something unimportant.
Example
The children had a squabble over who would get the last cookie.
Conversation
Did you hear that squabble between Emily and Jake yesterday?
Yeah, it was so silly! They were arguing over who gets to choose the movie.
I know, right? It's funny how a little squabble can turn into such a big deal.
Root Explanation
**Squabble** → The word originates from the Middle English *squablen*, which is a frequentative form of *squab*, meaning to quarrel or bicker. The term reflects a sense of engaging in petty arguments or disputes. It does not have clear Latin or Greek roots but is derived from earlier English forms.
Memory Tip
Think of a small, petty argument or dispute, as 'squabble' comes from the idea of 'quarreling' in a minor way.
Visually Confused Words
suable
swabble
stubble
snabble
shabble
scabble
quibble
equable