To twist or wriggle, or in some dialects, to fidget or move restlessly.
Possibly from Middle English or Germanic roots, though the exact origin is uncertain. It may be related to 'frisk' or similar movement words, reflecting Old English or Old Norse influences on English vocabulary.
This word survives mainly in Scottish and Northern English dialects—it's the kind of informal, descriptive verb that ordinary people created to capture quick, wriggling movements that didn't need the formality of standard English.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.