Wriggle/ˈrɪɡl/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Physical Movement Use 'wriggle' to describe animals or people moving with small, twisty motions. The puppy wriggled with excitement when it saw its owner. Pro Tip 2/2Struggle to Escape 'Wriggle' often implies a struggle to escape from a tight space or situation. The magician wriggled free from the chains.