verb
jiggle
JIH-guhl
Jiggle (verb) means to move or shake something with quick, short movements from side to side. Example: “He jiggled the key in the lock until it finally turned.”
verb
1
To move or shake something with quick, short movements from side to side.
"He jiggled the key in the lock until it finally turned."
"Jiggle the handle if the toilet keeps running."
How to use jiggle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA light, repeated shaking or wiggling motion.
Common pairings
jiggle the handle
jiggle the door
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Word forms
- Plural
- jiggles
- Third person singular
- jiggles
- Past tense
- jiggled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ the key in the lock until it finally turned.
Etymology
From "jig" plus the frequentative suffix "-le," suggesting repeated small movements.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for jiggle
See all rhymes for jiggle →Frequently asked questions
What does “jiggle” mean?
The word “jiggle” means to move or shake something with quick, short movements from side to side. In plain terms, a light, repeated shaking or wiggling motion.
How do you pronounce “jiggle”?
“Jiggle” is pronounced JIH-guhl (/ˈd͡ʒɪɡəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “jiggle” in a sentence?
Here is “jiggle” used in a sentence: “He jiggled the key in the lock until it finally turned.”
What part of speech is “jiggle”?
“Jiggle” is a verb.
