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squinch1 definition

squinch (skwinc̸h)

noun

an interior corner support, as a small arch, corbeling, or lintel, supporting a weight, as of a spire, resting upon it

Etymology: var. of scunch, contr. < LME scuncheon < OFr escoinson < es- (< L ex-) + coin, corner: see coin

squinch2 definition

☆ squinch (skwinc̸h)

transitive verb

    1. to squint (the eyes)
    2. to pucker or screw up (the face, nose, brow, etc.)
  2. to squeeze or compress

Etymology: squint + (p)inch

intransitive verb

  1. to squint, pucker, or contort
  2. to crouch down or draw oneself together so as to seem smaller
  3. to flinch

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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