How Do You Spell SQUILL?

Pronunciation: [skwˈɪl] (IPA)

The word "squill" is commonly misspelled due to its unusual phonetic representation. According to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), "squill" is pronounced /skwɪl/. The "qu" in "squill" represents the sound /kw/ instead of the expected /k/. Additionally, the double "l" indicates a short /ɪ/ sound rather than a long /i:/ sound. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the phonetic transcription when spelling "squill" to avoid confusion and mistakes.

SQUILL Meaning and Definition

1. Squill is a noun referring to a type of plant in the lily family, scientifically known as Scilla. It is characterized by a cluster of bell-shaped blue or purple flowers on a single stem, and it is native to parts of Eurasia and North Africa. The flowers of squill typically bloom in early spring and are often used in gardens as ornamental plants. Additionally, squill has been historically employed for medicinal purposes due to its diuretic, expectorant, and cardiac stimulant properties. Its bulb is particularly sought after for its therapeutic uses.

   The term "squill" also has an alternative definition. It can refer to a preparation made from the dried bulb of the Mediterranean squill (Urginea maritima), a species closely related to Scilla. This plant is known to contain a toxic substance called scilliroside, which acts as a cardiac glucoside. In medicine, squill finds application as a potent expectorant and has traditionally been used to treat various respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis and asthma.

   Overall, squill represents both a group of plants in the genus Scilla and a specific plant known for its vibrant blue or purple flowers. Its beauty and potential health benefits have made it a popular choice in gardens and medicine throughout history.

2. Scilla.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. A lily-like plant having a root like an onion-used in medicine; a shrimp; an insect having its body covered with a crust like a shrimp.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SQUILL

• zquill
• xquill
• dquill
• s1uill
• s2uill
• swuill
• sauill
• sqyill
• sqhill
• sqjill
• sqiill
• sq8ill
• sq7ill
• squull
• squjll
• squkll
• squoll
• squ9ll
• squ8ll

Etymology of SQUILL

The word "squill" originated from the Middle English term "squylle", which came from Old English "scyfel". This Old English term traces back to the Proto-Germanic root "*skūbilaz". The word's ultimate origin can be found in the Proto-Indo-European root "*skew(e)i-", meaning "to cover" or "to hide". This root has also given rise to words in other Germanic languages such as Old Norse "skyfla" and Middle Dutch "scovel".

Similar spelling words for SQUILL

• squall,
• squilla,
• squally.

Plural form of SQUILL is SQUILLS