square one

noun

Synonyms of square onenext
: the initial stage or starting point
the failure set us back to square one

Examples of square one in a Sentence

They lost everything and found themselves back at square one.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And that’s a hopeful timeline, given the hurdles of demining, returning confidence to captains and insurers, and bringing in a legion of empty tankers to stock up — and the risk that one errant drone could reset the whole process to square one. Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 2 June 2026 For Lennon, that was the new square one. Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 15 May 2026 Circular fire pits When space is particularly limited, a circular fire pit can help fit more seating than a square one. Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 15 Apr. 2026 Democrats, Schnur said, are essentially back to square one. Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Oc Register, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for square one

Word History

Etymology

from the use of numbered squares in some board games

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of square one was in 1960

Cite this Entry

“Square one.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/square%20one. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

square one

noun
: the first stage or starting point
back to square one

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