squirreling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈskwɪr.əl.ɪŋ/
KK: /ˈskwɜrəlɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of storing things for future use, similar to how squirrels gather food when it is plentiful to save for later when it is not.
Example
She spent the weekend squirreling away supplies for the winter.
Conversation
I've been thinking about my squirreling habits lately.
Oh really? What do you mean by that?
You know, like how I keep buying snacks even when I have plenty.
Haha, I totally get that! It's good to stock up, but don’t go overboard!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hoarding
stashing
saving
Antonyms
spending
wasting
depleting
verb
Definition
To hide or store something away for future use, similar to how a squirrel collects and saves food.
Example
She is squirreling away money for her vacation next year.
Tense Forms
Past: squirreled
Past Participle: squirreled
Conversation
Have you seen all those acorns I left in the garden?
Yeah, I noticed! You’re really squirreling them away, huh?
I just want to make sure I have enough for the winter.
Root Explanation
Squirreling → The word 'squirreling' is derived from 'squirrel' (from Old French *esquirel*, meaning a small rodent) combined with the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process of). The term 'squirreling' refers to the action of a squirrel, often associated with gathering or storing food.
Memory Tip
Imagine a squirrel gathering nuts and storing them away — that's what 'squirreling' means, the action of a squirrel.
Visually Confused Words
quarreling
squealing