To squelch means to crush or suppress something completely, stopping it before it can grow or spread. When a teacher squelches rumors by calmly explaining the truth, those false stories die out quickly. A general might squelch a small rebellion before it becomes a larger threat. Parents might squelch an argument between siblings by separating them and redirecting their energy.

The word suggests forceful, decisive action. You don't squelch something gently: you stop it firmly and thoroughly. A principal might squelch plans for a prank by announcing strict consequences. A mayor might squelch complaints about a new policy by showing clear evidence it's working. The goal is to eliminate the problem so completely that it can't restart or spread.

As a noun, a squelch is a specific wet, squishy sound, like boots squelching through thick mud or someone squelching across a soggy lawn after rain. When you step in a puddle, your shoe might make a squelching noise as water squeezes out around your foot. This meaning captures that distinctive, slightly unpleasant sound of something wet being compressed.