Shiver: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually, it refers to a reaction to cold or fear, often resulting in a slight shaking of the body.

• She began to shiver as the cold wind blew through her thin coat.
• The horror movie made him shiver with fear.

Typically used to describe a more noticeable, continuous shaking, usually because of anxiety, fear, or weak physical condition.

• His hands trembled with nerves before the big performance.
• She trembled at the thought of speaking in front of the crowd.

A general term for any form of physical movement or agitation, whether due to emotion, vibration, or physical action.

• He shook the bottle to mix its contents.
• She couldn’t stop shaking after the close call.

Mostly describes a slight, rapid shaking, often due to strong emotions like excitement or nervousness.

• Her voice quivered when she spoke in public.
• He felt a quiver of excitement as he opened the gift.

This is used when someone feels cold or scared and their body shakes slightly.

• He began to shiver because the night was so cold.
• She shivered in fear when she heard the mysterious noise.

This is used to describe small movements or shakes often related to medical conditions, earthquakes, or strong emotions.

• The elderly man’s hands had a slight tremor due to his medical condition.
• There was a small tremor that made the pictures on the wall shake.

This is used when something or someone shakes with a slight but rapid motion, often from a strong emotion such as fear, excitement, or nervousness.

• Her voice quivered with emotion during her speech.
• The rabbit's ears quivered as it listened for danger.

This is used when someone shakes uncontrollably, usually because they are scared, disgusted, or cold.

• He shuddered at the thought of the creepy crawlies.
• She shuddered violently when she stepped out into the icy wind.