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Squirt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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squirt

[skwÉœrt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

liquid eject

To squirt means to force a liquid out of a container in a stream or spray. This action often involves a quick, sudden movement, resulting in the liquid being expelled with some pressure. It can refer to liquids like water, juice, or any other fluid. The word is commonly used in informal settings, often to describe playful situations, such as squirting water guns.

Synonyms

jet, spray, spurt.

Examples of usage

  • He squirted water at his friends.
  • The child loves to squirt ketchup on his fries.
  • She squirted the cleaning solution onto the surface.
Context #2 | Noun

small stream

A squirt is a quick or short burst of liquid from a container. It is often used to describe a small amount of something, usually when it is ejected or shot out quickly. This term can also imply a level of playfulness or spontaneity when referring to how the liquid is dispensed.

Synonyms

shot, splash, spurt.

Examples of usage

  • Give me a squirt of lemon juice.
  • The squirt of paint went everywhere.
  • I only need a squirt of soap for the dishes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • The physics of squirting involves pressure; when pressure builds in a container, it forces the liquid out when an opening is created.
  • Squirting can be seen in nature as well, such as when octopuses eject water to propel themselves away from predators.

Pop Culture

  • In various movies, water guns and squirting devices are often used in humorous scenes, showcasing playful interactions between characters.
  • The concept of squirting appears in children's games and cartoons, where it's frequently associated with fun and laughter.

Psychology

  • Studies show that playful activities involving squirting liquids can be beneficial for children's motor skills and social interaction.
  • Squirting water can evoke laughter in children, as they find the action amusing and thrilling.

History

  • Historically, the use of squirt bottles dates back to the 1800s, initially designed for medical applications to cleanse wounds.
  • In the 20th century, plastic squirt toys became popular, leading to the creation of water balloon fights and other activities centered around squirting.

Origin of 'squirt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in the early 17th century, derived from the Dutch word 'squirten', meaning to squeeze or spurt.
  • In literature, early uses of 'squirt' referred to the action of pushing out liquid, often in playful or mischievous contexts.

The word 'squirt' originates from the early 17th century, with its roots likely in the Dutch verb 'squirten,' which means to squirt, and possibly influenced by the Middle French 'esguerrer,' meaning to disperse or scatter. Initially, 'squirt' was used in English to describe the action of spraying water or other liquids. Over the years, it has evolved and gained broader usage in various contexts, including both playful and practical applications. Today, 'squirt' is commonly associated with both the action and the device that disperses liquids, such as spray bottles or squirt guns, reflecting its playful connotation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,412, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.