To move or cause to move with a jerky, irregular side-to-side or up-and-down motion. This typically implies a slight or unsteady movement, often repeated and somewhat uncontrolled. The action can describe the movement of a physical object, such as a tail or finger, or a subtle shift in expression or behavior, such as a slight head movement signaling doubt. Waggling suggests a playful, nervous, or uncertain quality to the movement, distinguishing it from a smooth or deliberate action. The degree of movement is often small and quick, contrasting a more forceful or deliberate shake or wave.
Waggled meaning with examples
- The puppy, overjoyed at his owner's return, waggled its entire body in a flurry of excited movement, its tail a blur of happy energy. It jumped and yipped while the side-to-side motions of its rump made his entire form move. He was clearly pleased.
- Unsure of the answer to the question, she waggled her head slightly, a subtle gesture of doubt that didn't explicitly deny knowledge. A slight head shake and a quick glance at her friend made me certain she didn't know. This was an honest gesture.
- He waggled the loose tooth with his tongue, a nervous habit he developed while anticipating the dentist appointment. The little tooth wouldn't come loose and the more he moved it, the more anxious he got. All this movement added to his anxiety.
- The magician, with a flourish, waggled his wand, creating a slight shimmer in the air before 'producing' a dove. He used the wand to generate an expectation. No one knew how he did the trick.