What does squirmy mean?
Squirmy is an informal adjective describing something that wriggles, twists, or seems unable to settle. It is often applied to people who shift uncomfortably, to animals or creatures that move in a twisting way, and to objects with an unpleasant or uneasy quality. The word can be playful, as when describing a child who cannot sit still, or mildly critical, as when describing a scene that feels awkward or disgusting. Its vivid sound makes it especially useful for expressing physical discomfort and restless movement. Although it appears in both British and American English, it is more characteristic of casual conversation than formal writing. In formal contexts, words such as wriggly, restless, uneasy, or uncomfortable are usually more appropriate.
adjectiveSquirmy means wriggling or twisting in an awkward, restless, or uncomfortable way. It is an informal word often used to describe a person, animal, or object that cannot seem to stay still.
- Moving by wriggling or twisting; wriggly.
- Restless, awkward, or uncomfortable, as in a physical sensation or situation.
"The squirmy caterpillar made her face uncomfortably."
"He shifted in his squirmy seat while the dentist worked."
"The movie had a squirmy moment that made all the children laugh."
Sometimes the most expressive description of an uncomfortable sensation is simply that it feels “squirmy.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does squirmy come from?
Squirmy was formed in the 19th century by adding the suffix -y to squirm, an English verb meaning to wriggle or twist. The word squirm itself has uncertain origins, although it may be related to or influenced by swirl and worm. The adjective -y gives squirmy a more vivid and informal quality, often suggesting movement accompanied by discomfort or awkwardness.
How squirmy is actually used
Informal and often playful or mildly disparaging. It is especially common in speech and informal writing, and it can describe either literal movement or an awkward, uneasy feeling.
Easily confused with squirmy
Squiggly usually describes a line or shape that curves or wiggles, whereas squirmy more often describes something moving by twisting or wriggling.