Square

Definition

The term "square" refers to a geometric shape with four equal sides and four right angles or a public open space in a city or town. It can also describe fairness, balance, or a verb meaning to make even or align.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwɛr/
• Respelling: SKWAIR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /skwɛə(r)/
• Respelling: SKWAIR

Etymology

The word "square" originates from the Old French "esquarre," meaning "a square, rule, or template," derived from the Vulgar Latin "exquadra," meaning "to make square," from Latin "quadrus," meaning "square" or "four."

Derivatives

• Squarely (adverb)
• Squared (adjective/verb)
• Squaring (verb)
• Square-root (noun)
• Square-off (phrasal verb)

Synonyms

• Plaza
• Rectangle
• Equitable

Antonyms

• Irregular
• Round
• None

Usage

The term "square" is widely used in mathematics, urban planning, and conversational contexts. For example, "He drew a perfect square on the board" (noun) or "We need to square the accounts before the meeting" (verb).

Related Terms

• Rectangle: A shape with opposite sides equal and four right angles.
• Cube: A three-dimensional square.
• Geometry: The branch of mathematics dealing with shapes and figures.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A geometric shape: Refers to a figure with four equal sides and four right angles.
  • Example: "The window panes were divided into small square sections."
• An open public space: Refers to a plaza or meeting area, especially in urban settings.
  • Example: "The fountain is located in the middle of the town square."
• Fairness or balance: Refers to equal or honest dealings.
  • Example: "Their arrangement was a square deal."

Adjective

• Shaped like a square: Refers to something with a square form.
  • Example: "They placed the cake in a square box."
• Even or aligned: Refers to being straight or balanced.
  • Example: "Make sure the picture frame is square on the wall."

Verb

• To make even or align: Refers to the act of ensuring symmetry or balance.
  • Example: "He tried to square his work with the deadlines."
• To settle or resolve: Refers to reconciling differences or debts.
  • Example: "We need to square things before the end of the project."