squ

Squ is a three-letter sequence found at the start of many English words. It consists of the letters s, q, and u in that order, with the q typically followed by u to form the digraph qu. In most English spellings, this combination yields the onset /skw/, a contrast to simpler s- or qu- beginnings.

Phonology and orthography commonly associate squ- with the sound /skw/. The presence of the initial s before the qu digraph produces the characteristic cluster heard in words such as square, squad, squash, squid, squint, squeak, squeal, squeeze, squall, squirm, and squishy. The qu digraph represents /kw/ after s, so the overall pronunciation is roughly /skw/.

In usage, squ- words are among the most frequent in everyday English, spanning nouns, verbs, and adjectives. They cover a range of meanings, from objects (square, squad) to actions (squash, squeeze) and states (squishy, squint). Many squ- words derive from Latin or other Germanic roots, while others are more recent formations in English.

Beyond spelling and pronunciation, squ can occasionally appear as shorthand in specific communities. In online or gaming contexts, squ may be used as informal abbreviation for squad or squadron, though such usage is context-dependent and not universal.

See also: English orthography, digraph, onset cluster.