Definition
To become calm, comfortable, or fixed in a place or situation; also to resolve a problem or disagreement.
Example
She finally settled into her new home after weeks of moving.
Show translation
She finally made herself comfortable in her new home after weeks of moving.
Etymology
From Old English *setlan* ("to place, put"), derived from *setl* ("a seat, dwelling place"), related to *sittan* ("to sit"). The sense of resolving a dispute emerged in the 17th century, extending the core idea of "bringing something to rest."
Cultural note
**Settle** is one of English's most versatile everyday verbs. It collocates naturally in dozens of directions: *settle down* (calm yourself or start a stable life), *settle for* (accept something less than ideal), *settle up* (pay what you owe), and *settle a score* (get revenge). Be careful with *settle for*, which carries a mild negative connotation — it implies accepting second-best. American English often uses *settle* in legal contexts ("they settled out of court"), a usage that has spread globally through film and television.