Tremble (en. Tremble)

tʁɑ̃.bl

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
verb
To make a quick and light movement, usually due to emotion or cold.
She trembles with fear in front of the horror movie.
Elle tremble de peur devant le film d'horreur.
To shake, to vibrate.
The tree shakes in the wind.
L'arbre tremble sous l'effet du vent.
To be stirred by a strong emotion.
He trembles with excitement at the thought of going on vacation.
Il tremble d'excitation à l'idée de partir en vacances.

Etymology

From the Latin 'tremulare', meaning to vibrate.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to shake from the cold
To be very sensitive to the cold.
trembler de froid
to tremble in front of someone
To feel apprehension or fear in front of someone.
trembler devant quelqu'un
to tremble inwardly
To feel a strong emotion that is not visibly expressed.
trembler intérieurement

Related Words

shiver
Sensation of cold or intense emotion.
frisson
shock
Strong emotional impact often causing a physical reaction.
choc
anguish
A feeling of intense anxiety or fear.
angoisse

Slang Meanings

To snap under stress
He trembles every time he has to speak in public.
Il tremble à chaque fois qu'il doit parler en public.
To be nervous
She trembles like a leaf before announcing her results.
Elle tremble comme une feuille avant d'annoncer ses résultats.