This is the 4745th most frequent German word.
zappeln
"Zappeln" means "to fidget" or "to squirm."
Here, 'zappeln' describes the physical restless movements due to being excited.
Die Kinder zappeln vor Freude, während sie auf ihre Geburtstagsgeschenke warten.
The children are fidgeting with excitement while waiting for their birthday presents.
In this sentence, 'zappeln' conveys the struggles and rapid movements of the fish.
Der Fisch zappelt im Netz, als der Fischer ihn einholt.
The fish flutters in the net as the fisherman pulls it in.
Here, 'zappeln' is used metaphorically to describe nervous anticipation.