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Wriggle: meaning, definitions and examples

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wriggle

 

[ˈrɪɡ(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

movement

To twist and turn with quick writhing movements.

Synonyms

squirm, twist, wiggle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wriggle

When you need to describe small, snake-like movements often used to escape or move through a tight space.

  • The worm wriggled away when I tried to pick it up
  • He managed to wriggle out of the tight spot under the fence
squirm

When you need to describe uncomfortable or anxious movements, often due to embarrassment, discomfort, or unease.

  • She began to squirm in her seat during the difficult question
  • He squirmed when he realized everyone was looking at him
twist

When describing a movement where a body or object turns in a circular or spiral manner, often used in both literal and figurative senses.

  • She had to twist the handle to open the door
  • He twisted the cap off the bottle
wiggle

When you need to describe small, often playful side-to-side movements. Often used for describing the actions of children or pets.

  • The puppy wiggled with excitement
  • She wiggled her fingers to get the baby's attention

Examples of usage

  • He tried to wriggle free from the ropes.
  • The snake wriggled its way through the grass.
Context #2 | Noun

action

A wriggling movement.

Synonyms

squirm, twist, wiggle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wriggle

Repeated due to misunderstanding; for alternative term, consider ‘fidget’.

  • The student fidgeted with his pencil during the lecture
  • She couldn't stop fidgeting while waiting for the interview
squirm

Describes making quick, small movements when feeling uncomfortable, embarrassed, or trying to escape.

  • He squirmed in his seat during the awkward conversation
  • The puppy squirmed to get loose from the tight hold
twist

Indicates a motion to turn or rotate something around a central point. Can also imply changing direction abruptly.

  • She twisted the cap off the bottle
  • The road twists and turns through the mountains
wiggle

Typically used when someone or something moves from side to side with small, quick motions, often in a playful or relaxed manner.

  • The toddler wiggled her toes in the sand
  • He wiggled in excitement when he saw the gift

Examples of usage

  • The child's wriggle made it hard to hold him still.
  • She felt a wriggle in her pocket and knew the mouse was awake.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'wrigglen,' which meant to twist or turn.
  • It has roots in the Old English word 'wricgian,' related to movement or bending.
  • Wriggle has been used in English since the 15th century, highlighting its long-standing presence in the language.

Biology

  • Many animals, including snakes and worms, wriggle as their primary means of locomotion.
  • Researchers study the wriggling movements of earthworms to understand soil aeration and health.
  • Certain fish use wriggling as a defense mechanism to escape predators by creating a quick, erratic motion.

Literature

  • The word 'wriggle' has appeared in various children’s books, often to describe playful or mischievous characters.
  • In classic literature, wriggling often represents a character's discomfort or anxiety, adding depth to their portrayal.
  • Poets have used the imagery of wriggling to evoke themes of joy or freedom in nature.

Psychology

  • Wriggling can indicate nervousness, as people sometimes fidget or squirm when anxious or uncomfortable.
  • Children often wriggle when they are excited, demonstrating their pent-up energy and eagerness.
  • Researchers find that small, wriggling movements can help maintain focus, allowing the brain to process information better.

Pop Culture

  • Wriggle has been used in popular songs and lyrics, often to depict carefree movements and dance.
  • In animated films, characters are frequently shown wriggling to exhibit their quirky or silly personalities.
  • Social media challenges often include dancing or wriggling, demonstrating how this movement is tied to fun and spontaneity.

Translations

Translations of the word "wriggle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contorcer

🇮🇳 लपेटना

🇩🇪 winden

🇮🇩 bergoyang

🇺🇦 крутитися

🇵🇱 wirować

🇯🇵 くねくねする

🇫🇷 se tortiller

🇪🇸 retorcerse

🇹🇷 bükülmek

🇰🇷 꿈틀거리다

🇸🇦 يتلوى

🇨🇿 kroutit

🇸🇰 krútiť

🇨🇳 扭动

🇸🇮 vrteti

🇮🇸 snúast

🇰🇿 бұралу

🇬🇪 ვიწროვდები

🇦🇿 dönmək

🇲🇽 retorcerse

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,190, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.