Shivery: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is feeling cold or nervous, often leading to shaking. It can imply a superficial or temporary state of discomfort.

• After jumping into the cold lake, she felt shivery and wrapped herself in a towel.
• He always gets a bit shivery before speaking in public.

Often used to describe a physical reaction to strong emotions (fear, nervousness), cold, or physical weakness. It conveys a more persistent or intense uncontrollable movement.

• She was trembling with fear as she walked through the dark alley.
• His hands were trembling from exhaustion after the long hike.

This word is used to describe a light, rapid movement, often caused by strong emotions such as fear, excitement, or anxiety. It can also refer to physical reactions like muscles twitching.

• Her voice was quivering as she spoke about the accident.
• The dog's body was quivering with excitement as its owner approached.

Generally refers to more noticeable or intense movement compared to 'quivering' or 'shivery'. It can be due to emotions (fear, excitement), illness, or physical weakness.

• He was shaking with anger when he heard the news.
• The earthquake left everyone in the building shaking.

Shivery is best used to describe the physical sensation of feeling cold or experiencing a mild fright. It often indicates a temporary sensation that passes quickly.

• The cold wind made her feel shivery as she walked home.
• He felt shivery after hearing the ghost story.

Chilling is appropriate for describing something that causes fear or dread. It can also denote a cold temperature, but it typically carries a sense of deep unease or fright.

• The murder mystery had some truly chilling moments.
• The chilling winds of the Arctic took their breath away.

Eerie is suitable for describing something that is mysteriously strange and unsettling. It often invokes a sense of unease because of its unusual or inexplicable nature.

• The mist over the lake had an eerie quality.
• The sound of distant footsteps in the empty hallway was eerie.

Creepy is used to describe something that is unsettling or causes a feeling of discomfort, often related to fear or unease. It generally carries a negative connotation and is often associated with something strange or unnatural.

• The old, abandoned house at the end of the street looked creepy.
• He felt a creepy sensation as he walked through the silent, dark forest.