Shimmy: meaning, definitions and examples

Shimmy is often used to describe a dance move or a vibration. It's a playful or fun way to talk about shaking or vibrating, typically side-to-side.

• She did a little shimmy on the dance floor
• The car started to shimmy when it reached high speed

Shake generally refers to moving up and down, back and forth, or side to side with more force and can apply to various contexts, from shaking a bottle to shaking hands.

• He shook the bottle before opening it
• They shook hands to finalize the deal

Wiggle refers to short, quick, and often repeated movements. It often describes playful or gentle motions, usually side-to-side or back and forth.

• The puppy wiggled its tail excitedly
• She wiggled her way through the crowd

Jiggle is used to describe small, quick, and often continuous movements. It can refer to objects or parts of the body that move slightly back and forth or up and down.

• The baby's belly button jiggled as he laughed
• Jiggle the doorknob to make sure it's locked

Informal contexts, often describing a rhythmic or smooth movement, typically used in dancing or playful settings.

• She did a little shimmy on the dance floor
• The puppy's tail had a shimmy of excitement

More general term that can be used in various situations, from casual to formal, describing back-and-forth or up-and-down movements. Often implies more forceful or noticeable movement.

• He shook the bottle before opening it
• She was so cold that she began to shake

Describes quick, small, and somewhat erratic movements; often used for playful or casual contexts and when referring to objects or body parts shaking slightly.

• The jelly jiggled on the plate
• She jiggled the handle to see if the door was locked

Describes twisting or squirming movements, often implying an attempt to get free or show discomfort; usually used with small animals, children, or when someone is trying to escape from a tight spot.

• The worm wriggled on the ground
• She wriggled out of her tight jeans