Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Squeeze?

\Squeeze\, n. 1. (Mining) The gradual closing of workings by the weight of the overlying strata. 2. Pressure or constraint used to force the making of a gift, concession, or the like; exaction; extortion. [Colloq.] One of the many ``squeezes'' imposed by the mandarins. --A. R. Colquhoun.
\Squeeze\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Squeezed}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Squeezing}.] [OE. queisen, AS. cw[=e]san, cw[=y]san, cw[=i]san, of uncertain origin. The s- was probably prefixed through the influence of squash, v.t.] 1. To press between two bodies; to press together closely; to compress; often, to compress so as to expel juice, moisture, etc.; as, to squeeze an orange with the fingers; to squeeze the hand in friendship. 2. Fig.: To oppress with hardships, burdens, or taxes; to harass; to crush. In a civil war, people must expect to be crushed and squeezed toward the burden. --L'Estrange. 3. To force, or cause to pass, by compression; often with out, through, etc.; as, to squeeze water through felt. Syn: To compress; hug; pinch; gripe; crowd.
\Squeeze\, v. i. To press; to urge one's way, or to pass, by pressing; to crowd; -- often with through, into, etc.; as, to squeeze hard to get through a crowd.
\Squeeze\, n. 1. The act of one who squeezes; compression between bodies; pressure. 2. A facsimile impression taken in some soft substance, as pulp, from an inscription on stone.