What does squid mean?
A squid is a marine cephalopod mollusc with a long, flexible body, eight arms, and two longer tentacles. It belongs to the same broad group as octopuses and cuttlefish, but its streamlined body and paired fins are distinctive. Squid inhabit waters from coastal shallows to the deep ocean, and many species can change their skin colour or release ink as a defence. The word also refers to squid prepared as food, commonly in fried, grilled, grilled, or dried dishes. Although ‘squids’ is a regular plural, the singular form is often used collectively when discussing the food or the animal in general.
A marine cephalopod mollusc with an elongated body, eight arms, and two longer tentacles.
"A squid moved quickly along the sea floor."
In references to food, the singular ‘squid’ is often used collectively.
To move or swim with quick, jerking motions, like a squid.
"The fish squidded beneath the waves."
This use is relatively uncommon and is mainly informal or descriptive.
‘Squid’ is the traditional and widely used plural in general English, although ‘squids’ is also standard and is often used when individual animals are being counted.
"Squid gather near the reef, while several squids hide among the rocks."
A squid has eight arms and two tentacles, and its ink can darken water to help it escape predators.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squid come from?
The English word ‘squid’ developed from forms found in Middle English, including ‘squide’, but its precise origin is uncertain. It may reflect influence from earlier northern European maritime vocabulary, although no single origin can be stated with certainty. The modern spelling became established in English during the early modern period and was subsequently borrowed or adapted in other languages.
Related word forms
How squid is actually used
In culinary contexts, the singular is commonly used collectively, as in 'squid' for the food; 'squids' is also standard when referring to individual animals. The word is used in both British and American English.
Easily confused with squid
Squid have two long feeding tentacles and generally streamlined bodies, whereas cuttlefish have broader, oval bodies and shorter arms with prominent internal shells.