A squad is a small, organized group of people working together toward a common goal. In the military, a squad is the smallest unit of soldiers, usually around eight to twelve people, led by a sergeant. Police departments organize officers into squads to patrol neighborhoods or investigate crimes. Sports teams divide players into squads for practices or competitions.

The word carries a sense of teamwork and shared purpose. When firefighters respond to an emergency as a squad, each person has a specific role, and they succeed by working together. A cheerleading squad practices complicated routines where everyone's timing matters.

Kids often use squad more casually to describe their close group of friends: “I'm meeting up with my squad after school.” This usage keeps that feeling of loyalty and teamwork even when you're just hanging out together rather than accomplishing a mission. Your squad might be the friends you always sit with at lunch, play games with, or count on when things get tough.

Whether it's soldiers, athletes, or friends, a squad works best when members trust each other and contribute their individual strengths to the group's success.