Writhing

/ˈraɪðɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To twist or squirm in a way that suggests pain or discomfort.

The fish was writhing on the dock after being caught.

To move in a twisting or contorted motion.

He lay writhing on the ground after tripping over the roots.

To distort or twist in pain or struggle.

She was writhing in agony after spraining her ankle.

adjective

Twisting or squirming as if in pain.

The writhing mass of worms was both fascinating and repulsive.

Middle English writhen, from Old English writhean; akin to Old High German rīdan to twist.

writhing in pain

Experiencing severe physical discomfort that causes twisting movements.

writhing with laughter

Laughing so hard that one is unable to stay still.

writh

To twist or bend.

writhe

To move or proceed with a twisting motion.

To be overly dramatic or exaggerated in reaction.

She was writhing on the floor after losing the argument.

To dance in a provocative or wild manner.

The party was great, with everyone writhing to the music.