squabble 1 of 2

Definition of squabblenext

squabble

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun squabble contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of squabble are altercation, quarrel, and wrangle. While all these words mean "a noisy dispute usually marked by anger," squabble stresses childish and unseemly dispute over petty matters, but it need not imply bitterness or anger.

a brief squabble over what to do next

When could altercation be used to replace squabble?

The words altercation and squabble can be used in similar contexts, but altercation implies fighting with words as the chief weapon, although it may also connote blows.

a loud public altercation

When can quarrel be used instead of squabble?

While the synonyms quarrel and squabble are close in meaning, quarrel implies heated verbal contention, stressing strained or severed relations which may persist beyond the contention.

a quarrel nearly destroyed the relationship

When is it sensible to use wrangle instead of squabble?

The words wrangle and squabble are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wrangle suggests undignified and often futile disputation with a noisy insistence on differing opinions.

wrangle interminably about small issues

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of squabble
Noun
Players from both teams broke up the squabble. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 28 Dec. 2025 Even Santas squabble There are dozens of formal and informal Santa unions, organizations and regional groups across the country – ranging from the Worldwide Santa Claus Network to the Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas. Ray Sanchez, CNN Money, 26 Dec. 2025
Verb
Personalities from the stations have squabbled over the years, like rappers signed to labels with similar wares but diverging agendas. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2025 This go-around hasn’t been much different as the party squabbled over which of their numerous health care proposals should receive a vote. Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 13 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for squabble
Recent Examples of Synonyms for squabble
Noun
  • That the lawyers have been asked to come into a contract dispute between a quarterback and a college ought not surprise a soul.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 24 Jan. 2026
  • According to the report, internal Buss family disputes led to the majority stake of the franchise being sold to Mark Walter last year.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 24 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Much of the comedy in this action-comedy arrives via barbed exchanges between the constantly bickering James and Jonny.
    Richard Kuipers, Variety, 26 Jan. 2026
  • The showing had to be aborted after a few shocking scenes of bandmates bickering and Fat Mike blasting lines of cocaine.
    Jim Ruland, Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Some of the quarrels that divided Minneapolis city leaders only a few weeks ago, over policing or Gaza or the budget, have faded as people have come together to oppose ICE.
    Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 26 Jan. 2026
  • After all, this dispute is a business quarrel, rather than a personal one; while the lawsuit involves a college and a student, it’s better understood as a team trying to keep its star quarterback.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 22 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The opposition People Power Party, however, argues that the National Assembly must ratify the trade deal due to the exorbitant costs involved.
    Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 27 Jan. 2026
  • The overriding factor, Tait argued, is the global debt burden.
    Sean Lee, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Police believe the shooting might have stemmed from an argument or altercation.
    Tom Ignudo, CBS News, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Just hours after he was taken into custody, Anderson was involved in a physical altercation with another incarcerated person.
    Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • For instance, Schultz has steadfastly fought against performing blood transfusions in the field, despite the federal government’s offer of billions of dollars in grants to pay for them.
    Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 24 Jan. 2026
  • The Skippers kept fighting, using a 7-0 run to take a 57-55 lead with two minutes to go.
    Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 24 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Despite disagreement with Weaver's politics, however, legislators at that time appeared to agree that the policy and conduct of federal agents merited scrutiny.
    Odette Yousef, NPR, 24 Jan. 2026
  • Ukraine has also been frustrated by political disagreements within Europe over how to deal with Russia, as well as the bloc's at times slow-moving responses.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 23 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Callie and Arizona: Another couple spatting over kids.
    Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Mulroney, Ackerman, Snow, and Newman turn this story of spatting WAGS into an explosive, addictive watch.
    CT Jones, Rolling Stone, 11 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Squabble.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/squabble. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

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