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Wriggle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wriggle

[หˆrษชษก(ษ™)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 โ€˜fidgetโ€™.

  • 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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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 childrenโ€™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.

Origin of 'wriggle'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'wriggle' originated from the Middle English word 'wrigglen', which is related to the Old English word 'wrigian' meaning 'to turn, swerve'. The verb 'wriggle' has been used since the 15th century to describe twisting and turning movements. The noun form of 'wriggle' emerged later, referring to the action of wriggling or squirming. Over time, 'wriggle' has become a popular word to express quick, twisting movements.

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.