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 Word Forms

• 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

Some of the series’ most captivating scenes involve Cupp simply staring at her various suspects as they squirm and voluntarily incriminate themselves.

From Los Angeles Times

Mozart and his librettist, Lorenzo Da Ponte, meant to make us squirm as they uncover our insecurities and the faults in our materialistic facades.

From Los Angeles Times

Miller and Ruffin were thrilled to find their missing cat, but as Ruffin carried Mr. Thelma across their scorched property on the way to their car, the feline squirmed and clawed.

From Los Angeles Times

Needing the two-point conversion to level the game, he seemed to have connected with Andrews but the ball squirmed from the tight end's grasp on the goalline and the Ravens' season was over.

From BBC

Beyond that, it’s important not to whitewash history simply because it makes some people squirm or undermines a party’s political agenda.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flounder
• writhe