Definition of jiggle

The word "jiggle" has a fascinating history. The earliest recorded use of the word was in the 14th century, when it referred to a type of dance or movement characterized by a jigging or jerking motion. This sense of the word is thought to have originated from the Middle English word "ygelen", which means "to dance" or "to leap". Over time, the meaning of "jiggle" expanded to include other senses, such as "to move or cause to move with a wobbly or unsteady motion" (e.g., a loose tooth jiggling in one's mouth) or "to oscillate or vibrate slightly" (e.g., a loose screw jiggling in its socket). Today, "jiggle" is commonly used to describe a wide range of movements, from the dance floor to the kitchen (e.g., a ripe jelly bean jiggling in its container). And, of course, who can forget the classic phrase " jiggle your keys" as a prompt for showing nervous energy? The word "jiggle" has come a long way since its origins in the 14th century, but its playful and whimsical spirit remains intact.