The word "squelched" is spelled with the "ch" sound, even though it appears to be spelled with a "sch" sound. This is because the "ch" sound is sometimes used to represent the voiceless palatal stop in English words of non-Germanic origin, such as "squelch." The IPA phonetic transcription for "squelched" is /skwɛltʃt/, where the "t" at the end represents the voiceless alveolar stop that follows the "ch" sound. In short, the spelling of "squelched" follows English orthographic conventions for representing non-Germanic loanwords.
Squelched is a verb that refers to the act of forcefully silencing or suppressing something, typically a sound, a protest, or an expression. The word is frequently used to describe the action of stopping or eliminating a noise or an outcry by applying pressure or force. However, it can also be used in a broader sense to depict the act of stifling or repressing any form of dissent, criticism, or resistance.
The term squelched often connotes a deliberate and forceful action taken to extinguish or muffle an unwanted sound or voice. For instance, it may describe stepping on a squishy object that causes a wet and squelching sound. Similarly, it can be metaphorically applied to describe suppressing a protest or dissenting opinions by using power, authority, or coercion.
Squelched can also be used with regards to emotions or feelings, suggesting an act of suppressing or subduing them. For example, someone who feels angry or frustrated but decides to keep quiet or remain calm can be said to have squelched their negative emotions.
In summary, the verb squelched encompasses forcefully terminating a sound, curtailing a protest, silencing dissenting viewpoints, or suppressing emotions or feelings. It implies the use of power, coercion, or pressure to eliminate or stifle the targeted element.
The word "squelched" is derived from the verb "squelch".
The verb "squelch" originated in the early 17th century, and its exact etymology is uncertain. It is believed to be an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound produced when something wet or soft is trodden on or compressed. The sound itself may have been described by the word "squelch", which then gave rise to the verb form "squelch".
Over time, the verb "squelch" came to mean various things related to suppressing or silencing something forcefully or abruptly. It can refer to the sound of something being crushed or silenced, or the act of stifling or quelling a sound, action, or idea.