Definition

The act of wasting money or resources in a careless way.

Example

His squander of the inheritance left him with nothing.

Conversation

I heard you made some big purchases last weekend.

Yeah, I might have gone a bit overboard.

Sometimes it feels like a real squander of money, doesn't it?

Definitely! I really need to start budgeting better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To use something valuable in a careless or wasteful way, often resulting in loss or regret.

Example

He squandered his savings on unnecessary luxuries instead of investing for the future.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe how much time we squander on our phones every day.

I know, right? It's like we forget about everything else.

We should really try to use that time for something more productive.

Root Explanation

Squander originates from the Middle English 'squandren', which is derived from the Old French 'esquander' (meaning to waste or scatter). The word describes the act of wasting something, particularly resources or opportunities, in a careless manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'scattering' resources carelessly when you hear 'squander' — it helps you remember that to squander means to waste something.

Visually Confused Words