Shuddering: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is commonly used to describe a noticeable physical reaction to something unpleasant, frightening, or cold. It often implies a series of small, involuntary movements.

• She felt a shuddering sensation down her spine when she heard the ghost story.
• The shuddering of the car indicated it was time for a repair.

Mostly used to refer to an involuntary shaking due to cold, fear, anxiety, or weakness. It can describe a person or an object, and the shaking is usually not violent.

• He began to tremble when he saw the huge dog approaching.
• The old man’s hands trembled as he signed the paper.

Typically used to describe the violent and often destructive shaking movement of the ground during an earthquake. It can also be used metaphorically to describe intense fear.

• The building began to quake as the earthquake struck.
• He quaked with fear before giving his speech.

This word usually describes a slight, rapid shaking movement, often due to strong emotions like excitement, nervousness, or fear. It can also refer to an object vibrating slightly.

• Her lips quivered as she tried not to cry.
• The leaf quivered in the gentle breeze.

Expressions of strong emotional reaction such as fear, horror, or disgust. Often involves a full-body reaction.

• She was shuddering with fear as she walked through the haunted house.
• He couldn't stop shuddering after hearing the terrifying news.

Can be used to describe slight, involuntary movements due to emotions like fear, excitement, or physical weakness.

• Her hands were trembling as she opened the letter.
• He was trembling with excitement just before the roller coaster ride.

Describes a physical reaction to cold, or sometimes fear. Associated with short, repetitive movements.

• She was shivering uncontrollably in the cold winter air.
• He found himself shivering with anxiety before his speech.

Often related to intense fear or nervousness, as well as literal ground shaking from events like earthquakes.

• The students were quaking in their boots before the big exam.
• The ground was quaking during the powerful earthquake.