the word 'squib' emerged in late middle english as an imitative or echoic word, designed to replicate the sharp, hissing sound of a small firework or explosive device. this direct sound symbolism forms the core of its primary meaning. over time, the term's association with something small, insignificant, and often fizzling out led to its metaphorical extension into literary and journalistic contexts, denoting a brief, witty piece of writing or a minor news item. its verbal senses, meaning to write such a piece or to fail feebly, logically followed from these noun meanings, completing the word's evolution from pure sound imitation to abstract usage.

this word is considered a simplex form. it is an onomatopoeic formation from late middle english, imitating the sound of a small explosion or a hiss.