squinch

• 横跨两墙内角的小拱或结构，通常用于支撑穹顶或尖顶。

A small arch or structure built across the interior angle of two walls, typically used to support a dome or spire.

1. Architectural supportC2formaltechnical

   A small arch or corbel built across the interior angle of two walls, typically used to support a dome or spire.

   托姆普

   • The medieval cathedral featured squinches to transition from the square base to the circular dome.
   • Romanesque architects often used squinches to support heavy stone spires.
   • The squinch allowed the builders to create a more stable octagonal tower above the square nave.

• 一个较古旧的动词，意为眯起或皱起（眼睛或脸），也指斜视。历史上在建筑学中也用来指某种结构构件。

An obsolete verb meaning to screw up or contract (the eyes or face), or to squint. Also used historically in architecture to describe a structural element.

1. Crouch downB2informal

   To lower oneself by bending the knees and back, often to get under something or to avoid being seen.

   蹲下

   • He squinched down behind the sofa to hide from his brother.
   • The child squinched under the table to retrieve the toy.
   • She squinched low to avoid hitting her head on the low beam.

   同义词crouchduckhunchhunker downsquatstoop

   反义词extendrisestandstraightenstretch

2. Draw back in fear or painB2informal

   To flinch or recoil suddenly, typically as a reaction to something unpleasant or frightening.

   畏缩后退

   • He squinched back when the doctor approached with the needle.
   • She squinched away from the spider crawling on the wall.
   • The loud bang made him squinch and cover his ears.

   同义词cowerflinchrecoilshrinkwince

3. Squint or cross eyesB2informal

   To partly close or cross one's eyes, often in an attempt to see better or as a facial expression.

   眯眼或斜眼

   • He squinched his eyes to read the tiny print on the label.
   • The bright sunlight made her squinch her eyes shut.
   • The baby squinched his face up and started to cry.

   同义词squint