Definition of squad

The word "squad" originates from the Middle English word "scweche" which means "a small detachment or party." This term was used to refer to soldiers who were sent on a specific mission or task, separated from the larger unit. The modern usage of "squad" to refer to a small group of people, typically working together towards a common goal, can be traced back to the 19th century. In this context, "squad" was commonly used in the military, police, and firefighting departments. During the First World War, the British military started using the term "squadron" to refer to aircraft units, which were usually made up of several "squads" of aeroplanes. This usage of "squadron" spread to other branches of the military and has become a common term used in various disciplines today. Outside of military and emergency services contexts, "squad" has come to be associated with sports teams, particularly football (soccer) teams, where it refers to a group of players selected to train and play together. In recent times, the word "squad" has also acquired a more casual and informal usage, such as to refer to a group of friends or colleagues working together on a project. Overall, the word "squad" has evolved over time to describe a small, coordinated group of people working towards a common purpose.