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Squelch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squelch

[skwɛltʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

squeezing sound

To squelch means to make a soft sucking sound, often associated with stepping in mud or wet ground. This sound occurs when air is expelled or when a surface is compressed. It can also refer to the act of suppressing something, such as an emotion or a noise. In a figurative sense, it may describe quelling dissent or criticism. Surprise and humor can also stem from the sound itself in various contexts.

Synonyms

crush, quell, silence, suppress.

Examples of usage

  • She squelched through the mud in her boots.
  • He tried to squelch his laughter during the serious meeting.
  • The sponge squelched when I squeezed it too hard.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In modern slang, 'squelch' can also mean to suppress or silence someone, especially in a debate or argument.
  • The sound associated with the word is often used in movies and cartoons to enhance the comedic effect of characters stepping in slime or mud.
  • Squelch is also a term used within children's games and books, commonly depicting playful, messy environments.

Science

  • The sound of 'squelch' is scientifically linked to the texture and moisture content of soil, which affects how it reacts when pressure is applied.
  • In acoustics, the sound produced when walking in wet conditions is a mix of vibrations traveling through air and ground, creating the recognizable squelching noise.
  • Studies of animal behavior have shown that certain creatures produce squelching sounds when navigating through muddy habitats to communicate with mates or warn others.

Literature

  • Squelch appears in various literary works to describe scenes involving nature, often evoking a sensory response related to the environment because of its vivid sound.
  • In poetry, it might be used to create rhythm and mimic natural noises, providing a playful auditory imagery.
  • Authors often use the term to convey humor or messiness in scenes where characters encounter unexpected wet or muddy situations.

Psychology

  • The sound associated with stepping in mud can evoke feelings of nostalgia, often reminding individuals of childhood and playful activities.
  • Cognitive studies indicate that people remember words associated with specific sounds, such as 'squelch', due to the sensory connections they create.
  • Squelching noises are sometimes used in therapy sessions for relaxation, as they can trigger playful memories and laughter.

Origin of 'squelch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'squelch' comes from the late 16th century and likely originates from the Old English word 'squeltian', which means to squeeze or crush.
  • It also has connections to the Middle Dutch word 'squelchen', which refers to the act of squishing.
  • The word has evolved in usage to cover both sound effects and silencing one's opponent in conversation.

The word 'squelch' combines the Middle English term 'squelchen,' meaning to crush or crush together, with influences from the Old French term 'esquicher,' which means to crush or squash. The first recorded use of 'squelch' in English appeared in the 16th century associated specifically with the auditory element of a wet or mushy substance. Over time, 'squelch' evolved to encompass both its literal and figurative meanings, becoming a versatile term to describe not just a sound but also the action of suppressing various forms of expression. Its whimsical phonetics have made it a favored choice in both spoken and written language, particularly in artistic contexts or children's literature.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,822 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.