squeeze

UK: skwiːz | US: skwiːz

Definition

  1. vt. to press firmly, especially from opposite sides

  2. vt. to extract liquid by pressing

  3. n. an act of squeezing

  4. n. a tight or crowded situation

Structure

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Etymology

The word "squeeze" originated in the early 16th century, likely imitative of the sound or action of pressing (similar to "squish" or "squash"). Its core meaning of applying pressure has remained consistent, though it later expanded metaphorically (e.g., "financial squeeze"). No clear morpheme boundaries exist in its spelling.

Examples

  1. She squeezed the juice from the orange.

  2. He squeezed her hand reassuringly.

  3. The train was so crowded, we were all squeezed together.

  4. The new tax policy will squeeze small businesses.

  5. Add a squeeze of lemon to the recipe.