Squeeze (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Squeezed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Squeezing.] [OE. queisen, AS. cwEsan, cw&ymacr;san, cwIsan, of uncertain origin. The s- was probably prefixed through the influence of squash, v.t.]
1.
To press between two bodies; to press together closely; to compress; often, to compress so as to expel juice, moisture, etc.; as, to squeeze an orange with the fingers; to squeeze the hand in friendship.
2.
Fig.: To oppress with hardships, burdens, or taxes; to harass; to crush.
In a civil war, people must expect to be crushed and squeezed toward the burden.
L'Estrange.
3.
To force, or cause to pass, by compression; often with out, through, etc.; as, to squeeze water through felt.
Syn. -- To compress; hug; pinch; gripe; crowd.
© Webster 1913
Squeeze, v. i.
To press; to urge one's way, or to pass, by pressing; to crowd; -- often with through, into, etc.; as, to squeeze hard to get through a crowd.
© Webster 1913
Squeeze, n.
1.
The act of one who squeezes; compression between bodies; pressure.
2.
A facsimile impression taken in some soft substance, as pulp, from an inscription on stone.
© Webster 1913
Squeeze, n.
1. (Mining)
The gradual closing of workings by the weight of the overlying strata.
2.
Pressure or constraint used to force the making of a gift, concession, or the like; exaction; extortion. [Colloq.]
One of the many "squeezes" imposed by the mandarins.
A. R. Colquhoun.
© Webster 1913