Pronunciation: [skwˈɪntɪŋlɪ] (IPA) 
Squintingly is spelled with a "squ" at the beginning, which represents the sounds /skw/. The "int" in the middle represents the sounds /ɪnt/. The final "ingly" combines the sounds /ɪŋli/. The word is pronounced as "skwint-ling-lee" with stress on the second syllable. This adverb is often used to describe looking at something with one's eyes half-closed, as in "she peered squintingly at the small print on the contract."
"Squintingly" is an adverb derived from the verb "squint." It refers to the act of looking at something with partly closed or narrowed eyes, often due to difficulty in seeing or to protect the eyes from bright light. The term describes the manner in which one's eyelids are drawn together and the eyes are oriented at an angle, rather than being directed straight ahead. It conveys the sense of a strained or focused gaze.
The adverb "squintingly" suggests the way in which an individual observes their surroundings while attempting to enhance their vision or reduce glare. It implies a deliberate effort to concentrate on an object or scene, with the aim of obtaining clearer visual perception. This term also alludes to the process of making minute adjustments to one's eye position in order to accommodate for blurred vision caused by an optical condition.
In a figurative sense, "squintingly" can be used to describe someone who looks at something skeptically or with doubt, as if they are scrutinizing it closely for any hidden flaws or ulterior motives. It carries connotations of suspicion or mistrust.
Overall, "squintingly" denotes the act of observing intently, often by slightly closing or narrowing one's eyes, whether it is for the purpose of attaining better clarity, reducing glare, or portraying skepticism.
The word "squintingly" is formed from the base word "squint". The etymology of "squint" can be traced back to Middle English "squinten", which comes from the Old English word "scunian", meaning "to squint or wince". This Old English word is potentially derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skwonjan", which has the same meaning. Ultimately, the word "squintingly" is formed by adding the suffix "-ly", which turns the adjective "squint" into an adverb, in this case, describing how something is done with a squinting gaze or in a squinted manner.
