squash
Translation
to crush, to press flat, to force into a small space
Examples
He squashed the can with his foot.
He squashed the can with his foot.
We all squashed into the back of the car.
We all squashed into the back of the car.
She squashed his idea immediately.
She squashed his idea immediately.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to crush or flatten (sth.) He squashed the can with his foot.
((into sth.)) to force a way into a small space We all squashed into the back of the car.
Similar Words
Synonyms: crush, flatten, press; Antonyms: expand, release
Etymology
From Old French 'esquasser', meaning 'to crush'.
Memory Tips
Think of the sound a bug makes when you step on it: 'squash!'. Also, remember that 'squash' can be a type of vegetable (like a pumpkin) in the US.