squinch

/skwintʃ/

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Word: Squinch

Part of Speech: Noun and Verb

Usage Instructions:

1. Noun Usage: Use "squinch" when talking about architecture or building structures.

   • Example: "The architect designed a beautiful squinch to support the dome of the new church."

2. Verb Usage: Use "squinch" when describing the action of crossing your eyes or flinching.

   • Example: "She squinched her eyes to see the tiny print on the page."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "squinch" can be used to discuss architectural elements in greater detail or to describe specific reactions in dramatic situations.

Word Variants:

• Squinching (verb): The action of performing the verb form.

  • Example: "She was squinching as she tried to read the fine print."

• Squinched (past tense verb): The past action of squinching.

  • Example: "He squinched his eyes shut when the bright light flashed."

Different Meaning:

• In addition to the architectural and physical meanings, "squinch" can also imply an emotional reaction, such as a sudden movement back due to shock or fear.

Synonyms:

• For the noun (architectural): Arch, bracing.
• For the verb (crossing eyes): Squint, flinch, crouch.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While "squinch" does not have widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs, you can think of phrases like "squinch up" meaning to draw oneself together in a tight space or out of fear.

Summary:

"Squinch" is a versatile word that can be used in both architectural and emotional contexts.

Academic

Noun

1. a small arch built across the interior angle of two walls (usually to support a spire)

Verb

1. cross one's eyes as if in strabismus
   • The children squinted so as to scare each other
2. draw back, as with fear or pain
   • she flinched when they showed the slaughtering of the calf
3. crouch down

Synonyms

• squint
• flinch
• funk
• cringe
• shrink
• wince
• recoil
• quail