squiggle
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈskwɪɡəl/
KK: /ˈskwɪgəl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move in a twisting or curvy way, often making small, wavy lines or marks.
Example
The child began to squiggle on the paper with her crayons.
Tense Forms
Past: squiggled
Past Participle: squiggled
Conversation
What were you doing with that pen earlier?
Oh, I was just letting it squiggle on the paper.
That sounds fun! I love when my doodles squiggle all over the page.
Right? It’s a great way to relax and be creative.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wiggle
squirm
twist
Antonyms
stay
still
settle
noun
Definition
A small, wavy line or mark that looks like a twist or curl.
Example
She drew a squiggle on the paper to show her idea.
Conversation
I found a funny drawing in my notebook yesterday.
Oh really? What was it like?
It had this weird squiggle all over the page.
Root Explanation
The word 'squiggle' originates from the late 19th century, likely imitative of the sound or action of squirming or wriggling. It does not have clear roots in Latin, Greek, or Old English, but is derived from a playful representation of the action it describes.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wiggly line that 'squirms' on the page — that's what a squiggle is, a playful, wriggly mark.
Visually Confused Words
swiggle
snuggle
sniggle
smuggle
quaggle