The term 'squawk box' is a slang term for a device used to communicate within a workplace. It can refer to either a COOP, which is a four-letter word, or an intercom, which is an eight-letter word. A COOP is a device that allows two-way communication between two people in different locations, while an intercom is a device that allows multiple people to communicate with each other in the same location. Both devices are commonly used in workplaces to facilitate communication.