First Known Use: 1960
Dictionary
square one
noun
: the beginning stage or starting point
Full Definition of SQUARE ONE
: the initial stage or starting point <the failure set us back to square one>
See square one defined for English-language learners
See square one defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SQUARE ONE
from the use of numbered squares in some board games
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: square outPrevious Word in the Dictionary: square of the circleAll Words Near: square one
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up square one? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).