squelch

1 of 2

verb

ˈskwelch 

squelched; squelching; squelches

transitive verb

1

a

: to fall or stamp on so as to crush

b(1)

: to completely suppress : quell

squelch resistance

(2)

: silence

squelched the protesters

2

: to emit or move with a sucking sound

intransitive verb

1

: to emit a sucking sound

2

: to splash through water, slush, or mire

squelcher noun

squelcher

2 of 2

noun

squelch·​er

-chə(r)

plural -s

: one that squelches

especially : a retort that eliminates any possible reply

Synonyms of squelch

Verb

• suppress
• quell
• subdue
• repress

Examples of squelch in a Sentence

Verb

immediately squelched any signs of rebellion

his irritated glare squelched any other potential objectors

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

Its quick growth rate can squelch out nearby bloomers in a flash. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 15 May 2026

With the Stars pressing to tie, Wallstedt made 10 third period saves and held on for several whistles to squelch any Dallas momentum. —Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 1 May 2026

At the same time, org leaders have squelched all internal dissent regarding Israel. —Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026

Gracie’s discovery is squelched and this character’s value to the play comes in establishing how institutional silence can have an equally pernicious impact on confronting social hatreds. —Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Verb

origin unknown

First Known Use

Verb

1624, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Rhymes for squelch

• belch
• welsh

Kids Definition

squelch

1 of 2 noun

ˈskwelch 

1

: a sound of or as if of a squishy substance under suction

the squelch of mud

2

: a remark that silences an opponent

squelch

2 of 2 verb

1

a

: to fall or stamp on so as to crush

b

: to put an end to by force : quell, silence

2

: to make or cause to make a sucking sound

3

: to splash through water, slush, or mire

squelcher noun