Quivering: meaning, definitions and examples

Quivering is used when something is shaking with small, rapid movements, often due to fear, excitement, or weakness.

• Her hands were quivering in the cold
• The puppy was quivering with excitement

Tremble is used when someone or something is shaking slightly, often due to fear, weakness, or strong emotion and usually has a more formal or poetic tone.

• Her hands began to tremble as she opened the letter
• The ground started to tremble as the earthquake began

Shiver often describes involuntary shaking due to cold, fear, or emotion and usually refers to the whole body rather than just a part.

• He felt a shiver run down his spine when he heard the noise
• She started to shiver in the chilly night air

A slight, rapid motion due to fear, excitement, or weakness.

• Her voice was quivering with emotion as she accepted the award
• The leaf was quivering in the breeze

Usually moderate movement due to anxiety, fear, or weakness, but can also relate to objects. More general than 'quivering'.

• She felt her hands trembling during the interview
• The old bridge was trembling under the weight of the truck

More intense motion or due to extreme fear, cold, or exertion. Can also refer to physical objects vibrating.

• He was shaking with fear after the nightmare
• The ground was shaking during the earthquake

Typically used to describe body movements due to cold or intense emotions. Often implies discomfort.

• She stood in the snow, shivering without a coat
• He was shivering with anticipation before the big game