Trembling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone or something is shaking slightly due to cold, fear, or excitement.

• She was trembling with excitement as she opened the gift

Refers to a more noticeable motion from side to side, typically due to emotions, physical exertion, or external forces.

• He was shaking all over after the marathon

Describes a slight, rapid motion often due to nervousness, fear, or intense emotion.

• His lip was quivering as he tried to hold back his tears

Implies an involuntary reaction, often due to disgust, fear, or intense emotion, and is usually more abrupt.

• She shuddered at the thought of the haunted house

Often used to describe a person or an animal who is very afraid, cold, or emotional.

• She was trembling with fear
• The dog was trembling in the cold

Can describe a broader range of movements, often more intense or violent, due to fear, cold, or physical exertion.

• He was shaking with anger
• My hands were shaking after the workout

Typically refers to involuntary shaking movements caused by medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, or ground shaking during an earthquake.

• He experienced a mild tremor in his hands
• The tremor from the earthquake was felt across the city

Usually describes a slight, rapid motion often related to strong emotions such as excitement or nervousness.

• His lip was quivering as he tried to hold back tears
• The leaves were quivering in the breeze