Squelched: meaning, definitions and examples

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squelched

 

[ ˈskwɛltʃt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

sound production

To squelch means to make a wet, sucking sound, like that of stepping in mud. It can also refer to suppressing or silencing someone or something, metaphorically indicating a forceful end or stoppage. In informal contexts, it may suggest an abrupt cessation of a conversation or activity. This word often carries a connotation of decisiveness and control over a situation.

Synonyms

crush, quash, silence, squelch, supersede

Examples of usage

  • The mud squelched beneath my boots.
  • The manager squelched the rumors about layoffs.
  • She squelched her laughter during the serious meeting.

Translations

Translations of the word "squelched" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apagado

🇮🇳 दबाना

🇩🇪 unterdrückt

🇮🇩 dipadamkan

🇺🇦 пригнічений

🇵🇱 stłumiony

🇯🇵 押しつぶされた

🇫🇷 étouffé

🇪🇸 sofocado

🇹🇷 boğulmuş

🇰🇷 억압된

🇸🇦 مكبوط

🇨🇿 utlumený

🇸🇰 potlačený

🇨🇳 压制的

🇸🇮 utišan

🇮🇸 þrýst

🇰🇿 басылған

🇬🇪 დახშული

🇦🇿 söndürülmüş

🇲🇽 sofocado

Etymology

The word 'squelch' originates from an imitative source, which means it replicates the sound it describes. The earliest recorded use dates back to the late 16th century, where it was used to denote the sound of something being crushed or squished. The application of 'squelch' evolved over time to include figurative meanings such as stifling or suppressing. The modern usage of the term developed in the 19th century, particularly in British English, where it was frequently used in the context of waterproof boots and muddy surroundings. Its versatility in describing both auditory and metaphorical silencing has cemented its place in colloquial language.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,136 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.