squoosh
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "squoosh" means to squash, squeeze, or mash something. It’s an expressive everyday verb - not just playful, but the normal word many folks use instead of "squish" or "squash."
synonyms: squash, squish, mash, moosh
Hillbilly Dude Says...
We use 'squoosh' exclusively around here. I didn't realize there was another option until I was a grown up. Pronunciation
[SKWOOSH]
Meaning & Usage
- To squash or crush something soft (verb)
Mae:
Where’s my tomato?
Where’s my tomato?
Earl:
Sorry - I squooshed it when I sat down.
Sorry - I squooshed it when I sat down.- The state of being squashed (noun, informal)
Mae:
What’s all over the seat?
What’s all over the seat?
Earl:
Just a little grape squoosh.
Just a little grape squoosh.★ "Squoosh" is a natural extension of "squash" and "squish." In Appalachian and Southern speech it’s not necessarily playful - it’s just the normal word for mashing or squeezing something soft. ★
Origin
Recorded in American English since the late 19th century as a blend of "squash" and "squish." The *Dictionary of American Regional English* marks it especially in the South and South Midland, where it became an everyday verb.
Notes
Still common today in rural Southern and Appalachian speech, especially around kitchens, farms, or any setting where soft things get mashed. Recognizable elsewhere but less common outside the region.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it firm and plain: "squoosh." Rhymes with "whoosh" but starts with "skw."