Meaning & Definition of word "Shivering"

Shivering

/ˈʃɪvərɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. the act of shaking or trembling.
    • Example: A sudden shivering swept through him as he stepped into the icy water.
  • 2. a state of mild fear or fear of disaster.
    • Example: The shivering of the leaves indicated that a storm was brewing.

verb:

  • 1. to shake or tremble, typically as a result of being cold or frightened.
    • Example: She was shivering in the cold wind as she waited for the bus.
  • 2. to vibrate or quiver.
    • Example: The sound of the fireworks left him shivering with excitement.

Etymology

From Old English 'cēafian' meaning to tremble or shake.

Common Phrases and Expressions

shivering in your boots:

To feel very scared or anxious.

shivering fit:

A series of uncontrollable shakes often due to extreme cold.

Related Words

tremble:

To shake involuntarily, often due to fear or cold.

quiver:

To shake slightly; to tremble.

Slang Meanings of shivering

Meaning: Feeling nervous or excited.

Example Sentence: I was shivering at the thought of my first date.

Meaning: Experiencing a sudden rush, often from excitement or fear.

Example Sentence: The roller coaster gave me a shivering thrill.