squirm

v. to twist your body from side to side, often because you are nervous, bored, or uncomfortable.

v. to twist the body with small, restless movements. Often used to describe physical discomfort or a child's inability to sit still.

“The little boy began to squirm in his seat after the long movie started.”

“The toddler continued to squirm in his high chair, frustrated by the restrictive straps and the delay in his meal.”

v. to feel very embarrassed or ashamed, making you want to hide or move away.

v. to experience or show intense mental discomfort, particularly due to shame, guilt, or embarrassment.

“The memory of that awkward mistake made him squirm with embarrassment.”

“She felt herself squirm under the teacher's silent gaze as the rest of the class waited for her answer.”

v. to try to avoid answering a difficult question or dealing with a problem.

v. to attempt to escape or evade a difficult situation, question, or responsibility through verbal maneuvering.

“The politician tried to squirm out of answering the reporter's direct question.”

“Despite the lawyer's aggressive questioning, the witness managed to squirm through the cross-examination without admitting any liability.”

Informal