jiggle

[ jig-uhl ]

verb (used with or without object)

, jig·gled, jig·gling.

1. to move up and down or to and fro with short, quick jerks.

noun

1. a jiggling movement.

jiggle

/ ˈdʒɪɡəl /

verb

1. to move or cause to move up and down or to and fro with a short jerky motion

   to jiggle the door handle

noun

1. a short jerky motion

Derived Forms

• ˈjiggly, adjective

Other Words From

• jiggler noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of jiggle¹

First recorded in 1835–40; jig ² + -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of jiggle¹

C19: frequentative of jig ; compare joggle

Example Sentences

The Lego conceit proves an ideal format for visually embodying these tunes, as bouncing abstract creations spring and jiggle to musical life.

From Los Angeles Times

But beneath that plush exterior, Gerrish’s bed hides a jiggling secret.

From Los Angeles Times

Open, and prone to slightly jiggle as I stood 230 feet above the Capilano River, surrounded by tall trees and mist.

From Los Angeles Times

Samir wiggled his fingers over a pawn, jiggled his mustache, picked it up, and plopped it down a couple squares ahead, exposed entirely.

From Literature

I jiggle the handle of the front door, but it’s locked.

From Literature

Related Words

• fidget
• shimmy
• twitch
• wiggle