squad

[ skwod ]

noun

1. a small number of soldiers, commonly 10 privates, a staff sergeant, and a corporal; the smallest military unit.
2. a group of police officers, especially one organized to deal with a particular area of law enforcement:

   drug squad; fraud squad.

3. any small group or party of persons engaged in a common enterprise.
4. a sports team or a group of players from which a team is selected.
5. Slang. a group of friends.

verb (used with object)

, squad·ded, squad·ding.

1. to form into squads.
2. to assign to a squad.

squad

/ skwɒd /

noun

1. the smallest military formation, typically comprising a dozen soldiers, used esp as a drill formation
2. any small group of people engaged in a common pursuit
3. sport a number of players from which a team is to be selected

Word History and Origins

Origin of squad¹

1640–50; < French esquade, alteration of esquadre < Spanish escuadra square; so called from square shape of the formation

Word History and Origins

Origin of squad¹

C17: from Old French esquade, from Old Spanish escuadra, from escuadrar to square , from the square formations used

Example Sentences

Slot’s imprint is now all over the squad Klopp bequeathed him – and on this raucous, triumphant day Liverpool and their supporters enjoyed the best of both of those worlds.

From BBC

In October, Sinfield agreed to remain as assistant coach for the England rugby union squad.

From BBC

Mitchell Santner, a hero of India, comes into the squad for the remaining two Tests.

From BBC

And while the autumn campaign has ended with back-to-back defeats after starting with wins over England and Wales, Schmidt says he is "heartened" by the progress his squad have made ahead of the Lions series.

From BBC

Manchester City's squad has been there and done that... but it's not going to plan this term.

From BBC

Related Words

• band
• battalion
• division
• force
• gang
• group
• squadron
• troop