The word "squeamish" can be quite tricky to spell correctly, which is why knowing the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) phonetic transcription can come in handy. The /skwiːmɪʃ/ spelling of this word can be broken down into individual sounds: /sk/ (an initial consonant blend), /w/ (a voiced labiovelar glide), /iː/ (a long vowel sound), /m/ (a nasal consonant sound), /ɪ/ (a short vowel sound), and /ʃ/ (a voiceless postalveolar fricative). By understanding the individual sounds of "squeamish," one can more easily commit its spelling to memory.
Squeamish is an adjective that describes a person's tendency to feel uneasy or uncomfortable, particularly in response to something that is considered unpleasant, offensive, or distasteful. This feeling of squeamishness may result in a physical or emotional reaction that includes nausea, disgust, or even the potential for fainting.
Individuals who are squeamish may find it difficult to handle or tolerate certain situations, especially those involving blood, gore, violence, or explicit content. They may struggle with graphic descriptions, disturbing imagery, or anything that challenges their sensibilities. Squeamish people often have a heightened sensitivity to the physical sensations associated with these situations, and they may experience symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, sweating, or a sensation of lightheadedness.
The term also extends to people who are easily upset or distressed by relatively minor issues, such as certain smells, sights, or sounds. Squeamishness can also be associated with an aversion to bodily functions or activities that are generally considered taboo or impolite to discuss.
In summary, someone who is squeamish is highly sensitive to anything that is deemed offensive, repulsive, or unsettling, often exhibiting physical or emotional discomfort or an inclination to avoid such situations.
Sickish at stomach; nice; scrupulous; easily disgusted.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "squeamish" originated in Middle English and can be traced back to the Old English word "sci(e)man", which means to feel disgust or repulsion. Over time, "sci(e)man" evolved into the Middle English word "squ(e)imen", meaning to be fastidious or nauseated. The addition of the suffix "-ish", denoting a tendency or resemblance, led to the development of the word "squeamish" as we know it today.