squinch
noun
[ skwɪn(t)ʃ ]
• a straight or arched structure across an interior angle of a square tower to carry a superstructure such as a dome.
Origin:
late 15th century: alteration of obsolete scunch, abbreviation of scuncheon.
squinch
verb
• tense up the muscles of (one's eyes or face).
• "Gina squinched her face up"
• crouch down in order to make oneself seem smaller or to occupy less space.
• "I squinched down under the sheet"
Origin:
early 19th century: perhaps a blend of the verbs squeeze and pinch.
