What does squirming mean?
Squirming describes a twisting, wriggling movement, especially one caused by discomfort, ticklishness, embarrassment, or an intense desire to escape. The word often implies that the movement is involuntary or difficult to control, as when someone squirms in an uncomfortable chair or writhes under a sudden touch. It can also be used figuratively for people who appear uneasy or evasive: a politician who squirms under questioning, for example, may seem uncomfortable with the questions. Although often humorous and mildly expressive, squirming is suitable in ordinary descriptive writing. As an adjective, it can characterize anything that writhes or moves irregularly, such as a squirming mass of insects. Together with words such as writhing and wriggling, it gives vivid pictures of restless, contorted movement.
To twist or wriggle one's body, especially because of discomfort, ticklishness, embarrassment, or another sensation; figuratively, to appear uneasy or evasive through restless movement.
"She squirmed in her seat as she struggled to contain her laughter."
Often suggests an involuntary or uncontrollable response, though it can also describe deliberate evasive movement.
Moving in a twisting, writhing, or irregularly contorted way.
"A squirming caterpillar clung to the leaf."
Common with insects, larvae, masses of moving objects, and figurative descriptions of people who appear uncomfortable.
Squirming turns a tiny, involuntary twitch into a whole-body performance of discomfort.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squirming come from?
Squirming is the present participle and gerund of squirm, a word recorded from the late 16th century with the meaning “to writhe” or “twist.” Its deeper origin is uncertain, although a connection with the related-looking word swirl has sometimes been proposed without being securely established. Because that proposal remains disputed, no definite cognates can be listed with confidence.
Related word forms
How squirming is actually used
The word is neutral in register but often carries a slightly humorous or mildly disapproving tone when used figuratively. Its literal use may describe a person, an animal, or an object moving in a twisting or writhing way.
Easily confused with squirming
Squirming means to twist or wriggle, whereas squirting means to force liquid out in a narrow jet.