wiggle

Wiggle is a term used as both a verb and a noun to describe a small, irregular movement. As a verb, to wiggle means to move or cause to move with quick, slight twisting or oscillation, often with the body or a part of it. As a noun, a wiggle is such a motion, or an act of moving in this way.

Etymology: The word wiggle is of imitative origin in English, reflecting the sound and motion of a quick, oscillating action. It is related to other forms such as wriggle and wig, which convey similar ideas of movement.

Natural world and practical uses: In biology and everyday observation, many animals move by wiggling, including worms, larvae, fish, and the ends of tails or fins. Humans wiggle body parts like fingers or hips in rhythm or to relieve stiffness. In technology and animation, wiggle describes intentional small oscillations used to simulate lifelike motion or to adjust position, timing, or alignment.

Related phrases and distinctions: Wiggle room refers to flexibility in constraints or margins. The verb wriggle is closely related but often implies more twisting or turning; wiggle commonly connotes quicker, smaller motion. In some contexts, wiggle can also be used metaphorically to describe evasion or minor activity, as in “wiggle out of a responsibility.”

Notable uses: The Wiggles, a well-known Australian children's music group formed in 1991, uses the term as part of its name. Beyond that proper noun, wiggle remains a generic descriptor for motion, motion design, and related concepts in science and culture.