▪ I. squeam, n. rare.
[Back-formation from squeamish a.]
A qualm or scruple (of conscience).
| 1798 Geraldina II. 240 Do not let any squeams of conscience prevent your attentions. 1888 Interior (Chicago) 5 Apr., Without squeam or apology,..the mutual bearings of truths are to be..unshrinkingly maintained. |
▪ II. † squeam, v. Obs. rare.
[f. as prec., or from squeamous a.]
intr. To turn sick or squeamish.
| 1576 Turberv. Venerie 363 And as for gaines men dive in every streame, All frawdes be fishe, their stomachs never squeame. 1765 C. Smart tr. Phædrus iv. vi, This threat is to the fools, that squeam At every thing of good esteem. |