the verb-stem used attrib. in a few combs., in the sense ‘undergoing or characterized by wriggling,’ as † wriggle-eye, -tail, etc.
In quots. 1579, 1620, app. from wriggled tail.
1579. Spenser, Sheph. Cal., Feb., 7. They wont in the wind wagge their wrigle tailes, Perke as Peacock.
1604. T. M., Black Bk., E 2 b. Let no yong rigle-eyde Damosell … be left vnassaulted.
1620. Middleton, Chaste Maid, III. ii. Short riggle-tayle-Comfits, not worth mouthing.
1897. Mary Kingsley, W. Africa, 473. A dance of women…, the usual wriggle and stamp affair.
