Squad

Definition

A squad is a small group of individuals organized for a common purpose, often referring to a group of soldiers or police officers. It may also refer to a group of people working together or a group of friends.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwɑd/
• Respelling: SKWAD (with "SKWAD" rhyming with "quad" and "nod")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwɒd/
• Respelling: SKWOD (similar to American English, with "SKWOD" rhyming with "quad" and "nod", but with a slightly more open "o" sound)

In both dialects, "squad" is pronounced with the "kw" sound at the beginning, followed by a short vowel sound. The main difference lies in the vowel sound, with American English using a sound like the "a" in "father," and British English using a more open "o" sound.

Etymology

The term "squad" derives from the Old French word "esquade," which refers to a group of soldiers. This, in turn, has its roots in the Old Italian word "squadra" which means a square, alluding to the square formations military personnel often arranged themselves into.

Derivatives

• Squad car
• Squad leader
• Squad mate
• Squad room
• Squaddie (informal British term for a soldier)

Synonyms

• Team
• Crew
• Unit

Antonyms

• Individual
• Singleton
• None

Usage

The term "squad" is widely used in military and law enforcement circles to refer to a small organized group of personnel tasked with specific duties. It is also used informally to refer to a group of friends or individuals working together in non-military contexts.

Related Terms

• Platoon
• Company
• Battalion
• Brigade
• Regiment

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Military/Police Unit: A small group of soldiers or police officers formed as a unit for a specific task or mission.
• Example: "The squad was assigned the mission of securing the perimeter."

• Group of Individuals: A group of people organized for a common goal or purpose, often used informally to refer to a group of friends.
• Example: "Our squad plans to meet up for a movie this weekend."