Tingle: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'tingle' to describe a slight yet noticeable, sometimes uncomfortable, sensation on the skin, often due to excitement or nervousness.

• I felt a tingle in my fingers from the cold.
• There was a noticeable tingle of anticipation in the room before the announcement.

Use 'prickle' when describing a sharp, pin-like feeling, often caused by anxiety, fear, or physical irritation.

• My scalp started to prickle when I thought someone was watching me.
• The cold wind made my face prickle.

Use 'sting' when describing a sharp, often painful sensation, usually caused by something physically irritating like a bee or a sharp remark.

• The cut on my hand began to sting when I applied the antiseptic.
• His harsh criticism stung deeply.

Use 'shiver' to describe an involuntary bodily reaction usually caused by cold, fear, or excitement.

• She felt a shiver run down her spine when she heard the eerie noise.
• I started to shiver in the cold night.

Refers to a slight, pleasant sensation similar to the previous entry; often used in the context of emotions or reactions like excitement.

• Feeling him close made her heart tingle.
• The surprise news caused her nerves to tingle.

Fit for describing a sharp, poking sensation that can be mildly uncomfortable or annoying.

• Her skin began to prickle as she walked through the nettle patch.
• He felt a prickle of unease at the back of his neck.

Refers to a sharp, sudden pain often caused by an insect or a minor injury; generally has a negative connotation.

• The bee's sting left a red bump on her arm.
• The soapy water made the cut on his finger sting.

Used when describing a quick, involuntary movement, often of the whole body, usually caused by cold, fear, or excitement.

• A shiver ran down his spine when he heard the eerie sound.
• She couldn't stop the shiver after stepping out of the warm bath.