Squinched

The past tense and past participle of 'squinch,' meaning to close or contract one or both eyes partially, often in a squinting manner, typically due to bright light, pain, or suspicion. It can also describe the act of squeezing or contracting something, like muscles or the face, in a concentrated or forceful way, or reducing a space into a smaller space. It implies a degree of effort or involuntary reaction. The resultant expression can often convey discomfort, concentration, or skepticism. The contraction often alters the shape of the eyes and the surrounding facial muscles. The contraction could also be used to describe the use of equipment or tools.

Squinched meaning with examples

• The sudden glare of the sun forced him to squint, and his eyes automatically squinched. He shielded them with his hand, trying to find a tree for some shade, wishing he had a hat. It was difficult to even think about what he had planned for the day with the blinding light.
• Her face squinched in disgust when she tasted the overly sour lemon. The intense acidity made her want to make another face. She quickly turned away, trying not to make another face. She looked again after 10 seconds, curiosity taking over.
• Trying to read the small print on the map, he squinched his eyes, bringing the letters into a slightly clearer focus. Even with his glasses, the text was difficult to read. The map would need to be replaced soon since it was coming apart.
• As the weightlifter strained, his face squinched with exertion, every muscle taut and flexed. The pressure he was applying was too great, and he wasn't sure he could handle it.
• She squinched the old cardboard box to make it fit in the recycling bin, needing every available space. She was hoping to get rid of it before anyone saw it. She knew if they did, it would have to stay.