squarehead

English

Etymology

From square +‎ head.

Pronunciation

  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˈskwɛːhɛd/

Noun

squarehead (plural squareheads)

  1. (slang) An honest person; a non-criminal.
  2. (slang) A foreigner of Germanic origin, especially a Scandinavian person.
    • 1982, Lawrence Durrell, Constance, Faber & Faber 2004 (Avignon Quintet), p. 771:
      The squarehead bent his chin to his breast and said, ‘Very well. In an hour.’

Usage notes

  • 'Squarehead' is a literal translation of the term tête carrée used by French-Canadians to describe English-Canadians, especially those who do not or prefer not to speak French.

References

  • OED 2nd edition 1989
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