Basic Details
Word: Squirm
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To move in a twisting or wriggling way, often because of discomfort or embarrassment.
Synonyms: Wiggle, twist, wriggle
Antonyms: Stay still, remain motionless
Idioms and Phrases
- Squirm in your seat: To feel uncomfortable or anxious, making you fidget. Example: "He started to squirm in his seat when the teacher asked him to answer the question."
- Make someone squirm: To cause someone to feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Example: "The comedian made the audience squirm with his funny yet awkward jokes."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The little boy began to squirm when his mother told him he had to eat his vegetables.
Example 2: I could see my friend start to squirm as she spoke about her fear of heights.
Example 3: The worm started to squirm when it was picked up from the soil.
Fun Fact
The word "squirm" comes from the Old English word "squirman," which means to wiggle or twist, reflecting the movement associated with discomfort or agitation.
Famous Quote
"A talent for squirming, it turns out, is essential to survival in the wild." Patrick Ness
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "squirm" mean?
a) To stand still
b) To move in a twisting way
c) To jump high
d) To run fast
Answer: b) To move in a twisting way
2. Which of these is a synonym of "squirm"?
a) Jump
b) Wiggle
c) Fall
d) Laugh
Answer: b) Wiggle
3. Which sentence uses "squirm" correctly?
a) The boy decided to squirm his homework.
b) The dog began to squirm when the vet examined it.
c) The teacher asked the students to squirm quietly.
d) The fish started to squirm in the air.
Answer: b) The dog began to squirm when the vet examined it.
4. Which idiom means to feel uncomfortable or anxious?
a) Squirm in your seat
b) A horse of a different colour
c) As busy as a bee
d) Jumping for joy
Answer: a) Squirm in your seat
5. What is the opposite of "squirm"?
a) Jump
b) Stay still
c) Run
d) Dance
Answer: b) Stay still
