Squeeze

Definition

Squeeze typically refers to the action of pressing firmly with one's fingers or hand, or to fit through a narrow space. It can also refer to a situation of pressure or demand.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwiːz/
• Respelling: SQUEEZE (with "SQUEEZE" rhyming with "freeze" and "please")

British English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwiːz/
• Respelling: SQUEEZE (similar to American English, with "SQUEEZE" rhyming with "freeze" and "please")

In both dialects, "squeeze" is pronounced with a long "ee" sound, as in "freeze" or "please." The pronunciation of "squeeze" is consistent between American and British English, clearly reflecting the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

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Etymology

The term "squeeze" originates from the Old English "cwēzan," which means to crush or subdue. This Old English word has roots from the Proto-Germanic *kwēs-, which also means to squeeze or squash.

Derivatives

• Squeezer
• Squeezable
• Squeezebox
• Squeeze play
• Squeezability

Synonyms

• Press
• Compress
• Pinch

Antonyms

• Release
• Expand
• Loosen

Usage

"Squeeze" is commonly used to describe the action of pressing something firmly or trying to move through a narrow space. It can also be used to describe a situation of financial or social pressure.

Related Terms

• Clamp
• Grip
• Constrict

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Pressing Action: To apply pressure to something, usually with the hands or fingers, often to extract liquid or other substances.
• Example: "She squeezed the orange to get some juice."

• Moving through Narrow Space: To force oneself or something through a narrow space.
• Example: "He tried to squeeze through the crowd."

Noun

• Act of Pressing: The act or action of pressing or gripping something.
• Example: "Give the tube a good squeeze to get the last of the toothpaste out."

• Tight Situation: A situation of pressure, especially financial.
• Example: "The economic squeeze has affected many families."