Squirm

Pronunciation: /skwɜrm/

Definitions of squirm

verb to wriggle or twist the body from side to side, especially as a result of nervousness or discomfort

Example Sentences

A1 The baby started to squirm in his mother's arms.

A2 She squirmed uncomfortably in her seat during the long meeting.

B1 The defendant squirmed under the intense questioning from the prosecutor.

B2 He squirmed with embarrassment when he realized he had forgotten his lines on stage.

C1 The politician squirmed as he tried to evade questions about his involvement in the scandal.

C2 She squirmed with anticipation as she waited for the results of the competition.

Examples of squirm in a Sentence

formal The child began to squirm in his seat during the long lecture.

informal I could see him squirming uncomfortably as he tried to come up with an excuse.

slang She squirmed out of her responsibilities by pretending to be sick.

figurative The truth made him squirm with guilt.

Grammatical Forms of squirm

• past tense: squirmed
• plural: squirms
• comparative: squirmier
• superlative: squirmiest
• present tense: squirm
• future tense: will squirm
• perfect tense: have squirmed
• continuous tense: is squirming
• singular: squirm
• positive degree: squirm
• infinitive: to squirm
• gerund: squirming
• participle: squirmed

Origin and Evolution of squirm

First Known Use: 1300 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'squirm' is believed to have originated from the Middle English word 'squiermen' which means to twist or turn about.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'squirm' has retained its original meaning of twisting or wriggling in discomfort or unease. It is commonly used to describe a physical or emotional reaction to a situation that causes discomfort or agitation.