Synonyms of squash

squash

verb

ˈskwäsh 

1

as in to mash

to cause to become a pulpy mass

the sort of person who couldn't even squash a bug

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mash
• crush
• pulp
• squeeze
• press
• powder
• beat
• pound
• pulverize

2

as in to quell

to put a stop to (something) by the use of force

squashed any effort to reform the country's power structure

Synonyms & Similar Words

• quell
• suppress
• subdue
• crush
• quash
• repress
• sit on
• squelch
• silence
• destroy
• crack down (on)
• stifle
• overcome
• extinguish
• snuff (out)
• clamp down (on)
• slap down
• put down
• throttle
• demolish
• smother
• smash
• decimate
• wipe out
• dominate
• put out
• ruin
• conquer
• annihilate
• obliterate
• exterminate
• waste
• douse
• wreck
• quench
• strangle
• subjugate
• desolate
• nuke
• vanquish
• overwhelm
• overpower
• devastate
• rub out

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• help
• support
• assist
• aid
• back
• stir
• provoke
• forward
• promote
• encourage
• cultivate
• prop up
• foster
• nurture
• abet
• incite
• foment
• advance
• further
• whip (up)
• instigate
• nourish

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of squash

Shred squash and fold into zucchini bread batter, feature fresh kernels in cornbread, or use mashed bananas, applesauce, or pumpkin to replace half of the butter in baked goods. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2026

The scant few remaining Arm compatibility concerns revolve around old printers and proprietary apps, but these have been all but squashed for the average user. — Joe Osborne, PC Magazine, 9 July 2026

In one montage played for laughs, an emperor is squashed by a panda and a king is beheaded, although there is no blood or guts to speak of. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 1 July 2026

Making squash casserole on a sheet pan instead of a casserole dish means there's even more surface are to cover with the crispy topping. — Patricia S York, Southern Living, 27 June 2026