Squelched Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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squelched
[ˈskwɛltʃt ]
Definition
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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers often use 'squelched' in narratives to describe characters who suppress emotions or reactions.
- In poetry, the word can evoke strong imagery, particularly in nature-related themes, like dampness or silence.
- The term can convey a sense of finality, adding weight to the narrative when something is decisively ended.
Pop Culture
- The use of 'squelched' appears in various film scripts, often to emphasize conflict resolution or emotional suppression.
- In music, the term has made its way into lyrics, capturing feelings of overcoming struggles or challenges.
- Figuratively, it can describe the act of dampening enthusiasm, as seen in humorous or satirical contexts.
Science
- In biology, 'squelching' can describe inhibiting a cellular process, effectively 'turning it off' for study.
- It is also used in physics to describe the absorption of sound waves, creating an effect similar to suffocating vibrations.
- Research in acoustics has shown that certain environments can 'squelch' noise pollution, leading to quieter spaces.
Psychology
- The word can relate to cognitive dissonance, where conflicting thoughts or feelings are 'squelched' for mental harmony.
- In therapeutic contexts, addressing feelings that are 'squelched' can lead to improved emotional health.
- It highlights the struggle between expressing true feelings and conforming to societal expectations.
Origin of 'squelched'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'squelch,' which originally referred to the sound made when stepping on soft ground.
- It has been used in English since the early 1900s, illustrating how language evolves over time.
- Originally a slang term, its usage expanded into more formal contexts as language evolved.
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.