squeak
squeak Lexical Profile
squeak Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A short, high-pitched sound or cry, such as that made by a mouse or an unlubricated hinge.
"The rusty gate gave a loud squeak as she pushed it open."
A narrow escape or a very close margin of success (usually used in phrases like 'a narrow squeak' or 'a tight squeak').
"Passing the final qualifying exam was a tight squeak, but he managed it."
• verb
To make a short, high-pitched sound or cry.
"The floorboards squeaked beneath his boots as he walked down the hallway."
To utter or say something in a high-pitched, nervous, or excited tone.
"She squeaked an apology before hurrying out of the conference room."
To succeed, pass, or win by a very narrow margin (usually followed by an adverb or preposition such as 'by' or 'through').
"The bill managed to squeak through the committee by a single vote."
To turn informer or betray a secret to the authorities (informal).
"The conspirators worried that the youngest member might squeak under pressure."
• Rhymes for squeak
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the late 14th century, the word is of imitative origin, likely related to Scandinavian forms such as the Swedish 'sqväka' (to croak) and Norwegian 'skvekkja'.