squirm

[ skwurm ]

verb (used without object)

1. to wriggle or writhe.

   Synonyms: twist, turn

2. to feel or display discomfort or distress, as from reproof, embarrassment, pain, etc.:

   He squirmed under the judge's questioning.

noun

1. the act of squirming; a squirming or wriggling movement.

squirm

/ skwɜːm /

verb

1. to move with a wriggling motion; writhe
2. to feel deep mental discomfort, guilt, embarrassment, etc

noun

1. a squirming movement

Derived Forms

• ˈsquirmer, noun
• ˈsquirming, adjective
• ˈsquirmingly, adverb

Other Words From

• squirmer noun
• squirming·ly adverb
• un·squirming adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of squirm¹

First recorded in 1685–95; of expressive origin, perhaps echoing worm

Word History and Origins

Origin of squirm¹

C17: of imitative origin (perhaps influenced by worm )

Example Sentences

An hour later, I returned and learned that more than a few classmates had felt as I did but hadn't done much more than squirm.

From Salon

In the 97th minute of Friday's match, with the minimum six minutes of added time already up, the Frenchman allowed Alan Browne's hopeful ball into the box to squirm past him and gift the Black Cats a 2-2 draw.

From BBC

Alatorre, already a political force in Eastside and California politics, asked the same question again, letting the last word — an antiquated slur against Mexican Americans — make the top brass squirm.

From Los Angeles Times

Over the past six months, the Republican-led committee has grilled school officials and university presidents about antisemitism and pro-Palestinian activism on campus in hearings that have made even experienced leaders squirm.

From New York Times

I squirm, but her grip is too tight.

From Literature

Related Words

• flounder
• writhe