What does squirm mean?
To squirm is to twist, wriggle, or shift in a way that usually reveals discomfort, fear, embarrassment, or uneasiness. The movement is often involuntary, although people can deliberately squirm to express irritation or make others uncomfortable. The verb is commonly used in physical contexts, such as describing someone unable to remain still because of an itch, anxiety, or fear. It also has a figurative use: a joke, story, or situation may make an audience squirm, meaning that it causes strong feelings of awkwardness or discomfort. “Squirm” differs from the more neutral “wriggle,” since it usually carries an emotional or unpleasant implication. Although the related adjective “squirmy” is informal, the verb itself is standard in both British and American English.
To twist or wriggle one's body, especially as a result of discomfort, fear, embarrassment, or another unpleasant sensation.
"The child squirmed and tried to pull away from the rough fabric."
Can also be used figuratively for making someone feel intense discomfort or embarrassment.
A twisting or wriggling movement, typically one that indicates discomfort, fear, or embarrassment.
"He let out a nervous squirm when the principal entered the classroom."
The plural is used for individual twisting movements or for instances of wriggling or visible discomfort.
"The audience's squirms of discomfort were audible throughout the scene."
The word “squirm” captures that involuntary twist you make when something is deeply uncomfortable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squirm come from?
The exact origin of “squirm” is uncertain. The word is recorded in English by the early modern period and appears to have developed through an expressive form associated with twisting and writhing. Its precise formation is not securely established, so no certain cognates can be listed without risking an inaccurate etymology.
Related word forms
How squirm is actually used
Often used figuratively for a feeling of intense discomfort or embarrassment. In informal use, “squirm” can also mean to be visibly uneasy or reluctant.
Easily confused with squirm
Squirm usually implies an involuntary or uncomfortable twisting movement, whereas wriggle can describe a deliberate wriggling motion.