squints - Master This Word
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squints Word Meanings
- to look with partially closed eyes
- to glance sideways or with difficulty
- a type of look or gaze
squints Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
squints Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skwɪnt/
US
/skwɪnt/
squints Word Etymology
The word 'squint' comprises the root 'squin,' meaning 'to squint' or 'to glance,' likely of imitative origin. It arrived in Middle English from Old French 'esquinter', and has Latin and Old Roman roots. Imagine a person peering at something in the distance, narrowing their eyes against the light to see more clearly; this is the essence of squinting.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Squint is a versatile word that covers both a physical action and a kind of look. As a verb, it means to look with eyes partly closed, usually to shield bright light, see more clearly in a dim setting, or to show uncertainty by narrowing the gaze. It can also describe turning the head and peering at something at an angle. As a noun, a squint is a look or gaze that is partly averted, sly, or cautious. Etymologically, it is imitative in origin and traces back to Old French esquinter, with related Latin roots; the sense captures that instinctive reflex of narrowing the eyes to see better.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: use squint for temporary, involuntary eye actions; pair with at/through; distinguish from wink; describe reading in bright light; use squint at for a sideways glance.
Common Misconceptions
- It's only about a medical condition; most squints are normal eye behavior.
- Squinting always indicates pain or discomfort.
- A squint is the same as blinking.
- You must squint only to read; not to judge distance or light.
- You cannot squint at something far away or at an angle.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that squint covers both a physical action and a quick, sideways look; learners often confuse it with glare, blink, or wink.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: squint at, squint through, squinting eyes.
- Practice with bright light scenarios to feel the sense of narrowing.
- Differentiate from blink, wink, and glare with quick mental checks.
- Use physical cues: describe posture and head tilt with squint.
- Add related phrases: 'narrow one's eyes', 'peep', 'peer at'.
- Record yourself reading aloud to hear natural stress with squint.
Related Listening
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