Squab

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈskwɒb/

Definitions

1. A young pigeon before it has left the nest, or a short, fat person
2. A young pigeon that has not yet fledged | An individual who is plump or stout in stature | A term used to describe the state of being overweight or bulky in appearance
3. A juvenile pigeon that remains in its nest

Etymology: The word began as a term for a young, plump pigeon, prized for its tender meat, especially in culinary contexts. Its earliest uses in English date back to the 16th century, often appearing in cookbooks and market descriptions. The bird's rounded, soft appearance likely inspired the word's form, evoking a sense of something squat and bulging. Etymologically, it probably derives from Scandinavian roots, possibly Old Norse or Swedish, where similar words referred to soft, rounded objects or young birds. This connection aligns with the frequent influence of Norse languages on English vocabulary, especially in northern England and coastal areas. The exact Scandinavian source is uncertain, but parallels exist in words denoting something short and plump. Over time, the term extended beyond the bird itself to describe things resembling the squat, round shape of a young pigeon. For example, in architecture, "squab" came to refer to a type of cushioned seat or padding. This semantic broadening reflects how physical characteristics of the original referent influenced metaphorical uses. The pronunciation, with a sharp initial consonant cluster and a short vowel, has remained relatively stable, preserving the word’s succinct and punchy character. Although no longer as commonly used to describe the bird in everyday speech, the term persists in culinary and historical contexts, carrying with it a hint of its old-world origins and the tactile image of soft plumpness.

Synonyms: young pigeon, squab pigeon