waggle

Definition

To move (something) with short, quick motions; to wobble.

Etymology

From Middle English wagelen (attested in wagelyng), possibly a borrowing of Middle Low German wagelen; equivalent to wag + -le (“(frequentative)”). Compare continental equivalents Middle High German wacken ( > Danish vakle, German wackeln), Swedish vagla, West Frisian waggelje, Low German wackeln, Dutch waggelen.

Example Sentences

• "The Mole waggled his toes from sheer happiness, spread his chest with a sigh of full contentment, and leaned back blissfully into the soft cushions."
• "Oscar turned to someone who wasn't there and waggled his head. "Hoo, boy," he said."
• "I know you by the waggling of your head."