squabble

[skwob-uhl]

verb (used without object)

squabbled, squabbling 

1. to engage in a petty quarrel.

   Synonyms: fight, bicker, wrangle, quarrel

verb (used with object)

squabbled, squabbling 

1. Printing.,  to disarrange and mix (composed type).

noun

1. a petty quarrel.

squabble

/ ˈskwɒbəl /

verb

1. (intr) to quarrel over a small matter

noun

1. a petty quarrel

Other Word Forms

• squabbler noun
• squabblingly adverb
• unsquabbling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of squabble¹

1595–1605; probably < Scandinavian; compare Swedish dialect skvabbel a quarrel, gossip, Norwegian dialect skvabba to prattle

Word History and Origins

Origin of squabble¹

C17: probably of Scandinavian origin; related to Swedish dialect sqvabbel to quarrel

Example Sentences

Marking its 25th anniversary, Saffronart's recent auction saw a packed room, spirited bidding, and a rare "white glove" result - every lot sold, with some attendees even "squabbling" over artworks, according to an attendee.

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There are tantrums, squabbles and romantic jealousies, but it is mostly an opportunity for bravura singing.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He added that between 10-25% of pupils surveyed "reported having a wide range of negative experiences with their smartphones, from everyday upset arising from peer group squabbles to exposure to harmful and illegal content".

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After a news conference full of squabbling, the face-off passed without major incident.

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They would raise a glass to that if it happens and leave the politicians to squabble over who fought Scotch's corner the hardest.

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Related Words

• altercation 
• bickering 
• controversy 
• difference 
• difference of opinion www.thesaurus.com
• disagreement 
• dispute 
• feud 
• flap 
• hassle 
• quarrel 
• spat 
• tiff 
• wrangle