Wriggle out of doing Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Use Used in everyday speech, not suitable for formal writing or speeches. He tried to wriggle out of doing the report by claiming he was too busy. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation Implies a lack of responsibility or commitment. Instead of staying late, Lisa wriggled out of doing her part of the project. Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Implies Suggests cleverness or cunning in avoidance. Tom cleverly wriggled out of doing yard work by volunteering for kitchen duty.