squirm
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for squirm, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To twist and wriggle the body, like a worm or snake.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use squirm
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
First recorded in the 1690s, originally describing eels; the deeper origin is uncertain.
Full origin of squirm →Frequently asked questions
What does “squirm” mean?
The word “squirm” means to twist and wriggle the body, like a worm or snake. In plain terms, to wriggle physically, or to feel awkward and uncomfortable, especially when put on the spot.
How do you pronounce “squirm”?
“Squirm” is pronounced skwurm (/skwɝm/ in IPA).
How do you use “squirm” in a sentence?
Here is “squirm” used in a sentence: “The toddler squirmed on her mother's lap.”
What part of speech is “squirm”?
Depending on how it is used, “squirm” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “squirm” come from?
The word “squirm” dates back to around 1690. First recorded in the 1690s, originally describing eels; the deeper origin is uncertain.
How many meanings does “squirm” have?
“Squirm” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to twist and wriggle the body, like a worm or snake.