What does squarish mean?
Squarish is an adjective describing something that is roughly square rather than perfectly square. It is especially useful for buildings, objects, faces, or other forms whose outlines suggest a square but include small irregularities or differences in proportion. The word is more specific and more elegant than saying that something is almost square, and it is often milder than boxy, which can suggest an angular or somewhat awkward shape. In visual description, “a squarish table” indicates a generally square appearance without making a precise geometric claim. The ending -ish is a familiar English suffix meaning “somewhat” or “approximately,” so squarish conveys informality and tolerance of small deviations from the ideal shape. It is common in everyday speech and in descriptive writing, while exact measurements or geometric accuracy require more precise terminology.
adjectiveSomewhat or approximately square in shape; having the general form of a square without being exactly square.
- Somewhat square in appearance or shape.
"The old table has a broad, squarish top that is practical despite its uneven legs."
"The building's squarish windows reflected the pale morning sky."
"She preferred the squarish arrangement of the cushions to a more circular design."
Squarish is the perfect word for a shape that almost fits neatly into a square, but not quite.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squarish come from?
Squarish was formed in English by adding the suffix -ish, meaning “somewhat” or “approximately,” to square. Square itself entered Middle English from Old French square, which was derived from Latin quadratus, meaning “squared” or “four-sided.” The modern adjective therefore follows a productive English pattern of softening a more exact description when a close but imperfect resemblance is intended.
Related word forms
How squarish is actually used
The suffix -ish gives the word an approximate, softened meaning. It is common in both British and American English and is generally neutral in tone.
Easily confused with squarish
Square describes a shape with four equal sides and right angles, whereas squarish means only approximately square.
Boxy emphasizes a shape resembling a box, often suggesting a somewhat blocky or compact appearance, while squarish focuses more directly on being roughly square.