To square the circle

Square Square, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Squared} (skw[^a]rd); p. pr. & vb. n. {Squaring}.] [Cf. OF. escarrer, esquarrer. See {Square}, n.] 1. To form with four equal sides and four right angles. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]

2. To form with right angles and straight lines, or flat surfaces; as, to square masons' work. [1913 Webster]

3. To compare with, or reduce to, any given measure or standard. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

4. To adjust; to regulate; to mold; to shape; to fit; as, to square our actions by the opinions of others. [1913 Webster]

Square my trial To my proportioned strength. --Milton. [1913 Webster]

5. To make even, so as to leave no remainder or difference; to balance; as, to square accounts. [1913 Webster]

6. (Math.) To multiply by itself; as, to square a number or a quantity. [1913 Webster]

7. (Astrol.) To hold a quartile position respecting. [1913 Webster]

The icy Goat and Crab that square the Scales. --Creech. [1913 Webster]

8. (Naut.) To place at right angles with the keel; as, to square the yards. [1913 Webster]

{To square one's shoulders}, to raise the shoulders so as to give them a square appearance, -- a movement expressing contempt or dislike. --Sir W. Scott.

{To square the circle} (Math.), to determine the exact contents of a circle in square measure. The solution of this famous problem is now generally admitted to be impossible. [1913 Webster]