squeaker
noun
Squeaker — a contest or escape decided by the narrowest possible margin
Definition
Something achieved (or escaped) by a narrow margin
In depth
A squeaker, like squeak, names something achieved or escaped by a narrow margin, but the noun form is most often used specifically to describe a closely contested game, election, or competition decided by the slimmest possible advantage. It carries the same casual, almost affectionate tone as its root word.
Origin
The word extends from 'squeak,' its noun form specifically developing within twentieth-century American sports journalism to describe games decided by razor-thin margins, the imagery of a small, barely audible sound translating naturally into the sense of victory secured by the narrowest possible thread.
Usage examples
"The election turned out to be a genuine squeaker, decided by fewer than two hundred votes statewide."
"Fans still talk about that legendary squeaker, won in the final seconds by a single, improbable shot."
"The negotiation ended in a squeaker of a compromise, neither side fully satisfied but neither willing to risk further delay."
How to use it
Squeaker is informal sports and political vocabulary, particularly common in journalism describing closely decided contests, carrying a light, often celebratory tone appropriate to describing dramatic, narrowly won victories.
Related concepts
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