Though technically a fruit, squash is generally prepared as a vegetable. They are in the gourd family. There are many different varieties of squash that vary in color, flavor, and size. 

Native to the New World and grown by North American Indians prior to European colonization.

Squash was introduced to Europe around the year 16th century. 

The name “squash” comes from the  Narragansett word askutasquash meaning “eaten raw or uncooked.”

“All About Squash” by Barbara Rolek (2019) https://www.thespruceeats.com/all-about-squash-1137499

New Oxford Book of Food Plants by John Vaughan et al. (2009)

The Oxford Companion to Food. 3rd ed., by Alan Davidson and edited by Tom Jaine (2014)

“Squash” from Encyclopedia Britannica https://www.britannica.com/plant/squash

“Why is Squash Called Squash?” by Rose Eveleth (2013) 

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/why-is-squash-called-squash-180947825