Definition

In a way that involves looking at something with one eye closed or squinting, often to see better or to express doubt.

Example

She looked asquint at the strange object on the table.

Conversation

Did you see how she looked at us asquint during the meeting?

Yeah, it was kind of strange, right?

I wonder if she was judging our ideas or just curious.

Maybe a bit of both; her expression was hard to read.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Asquint is derived from the Middle English 'asquinte', which comes from the Old Norse 'skyntr' (meaning to squint or look sideways). The prefix 'a-' is a variant of 'on' or 'in', and 'squint' refers to the act of looking with one eye closed or at an angle. Thus, 'asquint' means to look at something with a sideways glance or squinting.

Memory Tip

Imagine looking at something 'on' ('a-') with your eyes 'squinting' — that's how you remember that 'asquint' means to look sideways or with a squint.

Visually Confused Words