English edit

Etymology edit

un- +‎ settlement

Noun edit

unsettlement (countable and uncountable, plural unsettlements)

  1. The quality of being unsettled; upset or unrest.
    • 1842, Joseph Sturge, A Visit To The United States In 1841[1]:
      Notwithstanding the unsettlement produced by the treaty during the past season, the Indians have raised an adequate supply of provisions to keep them comfortably during the year; and they manifest an increased desire to avoid the use of ardent spirits, and to have their children educated.
  2. An illegal or unofficial settlement, or community of people living together.