squeeze
squeeze Lexical Profile
squeeze Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To firmly press an object from opposite or all sides, typically with one's fingers or hands.
"Please squeeze the sponge to remove the excess water before wiping the counter."
To extract liquid or juice from something by applying firm pressure.
"He squeezed three fresh oranges to make a glass of juice for breakfast."
To manage to force one's way or fit something into or through a narrow, restricted space.
"We managed to squeeze all the suitcases into the trunk of the rental car."
To subject someone or something to financial pressure, or to obtain resources with difficulty.
"Higher interest rates are beginning to squeeze small businesses across the region."
• noun
An act of pressing something firmly with one's fingers or hands, or a friendly, affectionate hug.
"She gave her daughter's hand a reassuring squeeze before they walked onto the stage."
A small quantity of liquid extracted by pressing a fruit or container.
"Adding a fresh squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor of the roasted vegetables."
A state of being tightly crowded or having barely enough space or time to manage.
"With five passengers and all their luggage in the compact car, it was a tight squeeze."
A severe financial restriction, reduction in credit, or economic pressure on budgets and profits.
"Rising energy costs and inflation have put a severe squeeze on household budgets."
• Rhymes for squeeze
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Originating in the late 16th century as an alteration of earlier 'quease', it derives from the Old English verb 'cwysan', meaning to crush or bruise, reinforced by an expressive initial 's-' common in words denoting compression or force.