Squiggle: meaning, definitions and examples

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squiggle

 

[ ˈskwɪg.əl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

shapes, lines

A squiggle is a wavy or curly line or shape that often appears in informal writing or drawing. It is typically used to convey a sense of movement or energy. Squiggles can also serve as a form of decoration. They are often seen in children's art, graffiti, or graphic design. The term can be used metaphorically to describe something that is convoluted or complex.

Synonyms

curve, loop, scribble, wiggle

Examples of usage

  • The artist drew a squiggle across the page.
  • She used a squiggle to emphasize her point in the presentation.
  • I doodled a few squiggles in my notebook during the lecture.
  • The squiggle on the map indicated a winding path.

Translations

Translations of the word "squiggle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondulação

🇮🇳 लहर

🇩🇪 Zickzack

🇮🇩 gelombang

🇺🇦 зигзаг

🇵🇱 falowanie

🇯🇵 うねり

🇫🇷 ondulation

🇪🇸 ondulación

🇹🇷 dalgalanma

🇰🇷 물결

🇸🇦 تموج

🇨🇿 vlnění

🇸🇰 vlnění

🇨🇳 波浪

🇸🇮 valovanje

🇮🇸 bylgja

🇰🇿 толқын

🇬🇪 მوجი

🇦🇿 dalğa

🇲🇽 ondulación

Word origin

The word 'squiggle' originates from the late 19th century, deriving from the verb 'squiggle,' which is thought to imitate the sound or motion associated with drawing wavy lines. The term has roots in the Middle English word 'squiggel,' likely a playful variation of 'squig' or 'squirm.' 'Squiggle' was first formally recognized in the English language around the 1880s, primarily used in contexts related to art and informal written expressions. As the word evolved, it captured not just the physical representation of curvy shapes but also began to embody a broader, more whimsical connotation, often relating to creativity and spontaneity. Its usage has expanded across various domains, including graphic design, education, and everyday language, reflecting both a childlike quality and a sophisticated approach to creativity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,966, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.