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squirm

 - 3 dictionary results

squirm

  [skwurm] ,
Use squirm in a Sentence
–verb (used without object)
1. to wriggle or writhe.
2. to feel or display discomfort or distress, as from reproof, embarrassment, pain, etc.: He squirmed under the judge's questioning.
–noun
3. the act of squirming; a squirming or wriggling movement.
Origin:
1685–95; of expressive orig., perh. echoing worm

Related forms:
squirmer, noun
squirm⋅ing⋅ly, adverb

Synonyms:
1. turn, twist.
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To squirm
squirm   (skwûrm)   
intr.v.   squirmed, squirm·ing, squirms

  1. To twist about in a wriggling, snakelike motion; writhe.

  2. To feel or exhibit signs of humiliation or embarrassment.

n.  

  1. The act of squirming.

  2. A squirming movement.


[Origin unknown.]
squirm'er n., squirm'y adj.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

squirm 
1691, originally referring to eels, of unknown origin; sometimes associated with worm or swarm, but perhaps rather imitative.
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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