verb

squander

/ˈskwɒndər/ · say it: SKWON·der

to waste recklessly

In Actions & Behavior

In more detail

to waste money, time, or other resources by spending or using them foolishly or carelessly

Examples

He squandered his inheritance on expensive cars and vacations.
Don't squander this opportunity to study abroad.

How to use squander

Squander emphasizes foolish or reckless waste, often implying a sense of loss or regret about what has been wasted. It is more forceful and judgmental than the neutral term 'spend', and differs from 'waste' in suggesting a particular carelessness or lack of foresight. It appears frequently in discussions of finances, opportunities, and potential.

Common phrases

squander money
squander time
squander opportunity
squander resources
squander one's potential
squander away

Synonyms

waste · fritter away · throw away · dissipate · misspend

Opposites

conserve · preserve · economize

Word family

squanderer (noun) · squandered (adjective) · squandering (noun/adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'squander' with positive outcomes (e.g., 'squander his talents on a successful business'), but squander inherently implies waste and loss, not productive use.

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