squirm
[ skwurm ]
/ skwɜrm /
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verb (used without object)
to wriggle or writhe.
to feel or display discomfort or distress, as from reproof, embarrassment, pain, etc.: He squirmed under the judge's questioning.
noun
the act of squirming; a squirming or wriggling movement.
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Origin of squirm
First recorded in 1685–95; of expressive origin, perhaps echoing worm
OTHER WORDS FROM squirm
squirmer, nounsquirm·ing·ly, adverbun·squirm·ing, adjectiveDictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use squirm in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for squirm
squirm
/ (skwɜːm) /
verb (intr)
to move with a wriggling motion; writhe
to feel deep mental discomfort, guilt, embarrassment, etc
noun
a squirming movement
Derived forms of squirm
squirmer, nounsquirming, adjectivesquirmingly, adverbWord Origin for squirm
C17: of imitative origin (perhaps influenced by worm)
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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