Tremor: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to refer to small or minor shaking, either caused by natural seismic activity or other factors. It can also describe a slight physical shaking in people, due to nervousness or illness.

• She felt a slight tremor in her hands as she gave the presentation
• There was a small tremor, but it didn't cause any damage to buildings

This term is used when talking about a significant shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of tectonic plates. It generally refers to more intense and destructive events.

• The earthquake last night was the strongest in the region for decades
• After the earthquake, many buildings were damaged and people needed shelter

This phrase is used in scientific or technical contexts to refer to the general occurrence of earthquakes and other phenomena related to the movement of the Earth's crust. It is more formal and often used by geologists.

• The region has been experiencing increased seismic activity
• Studies show that seismic activity in this area has been on the rise

This term is a more general and casual way to describe the movement that can occur during an earthquake or tremor. It can also be used to describe vibrations from other sources.

• The shaking lasted for a few seconds, causing some items to fall off the shelves
• There was a strange shaking felt throughout the building

Use 'tremor' typically for medical, geological, or emotional contexts. It often denotes a small, involuntary shaking movement, particularly as a symptom of a condition like Parkinson's disease, or a minor earthquake.

• He felt a slight tremor in his hands.
• The tremor was felt throughout the city, but did not cause much damage.

Use 'shaking' for more general physical movements caused by various reasons such as cold, fear, or strong emotions. It often implies a more noticeable movement than 'tremor' or 'quiver'.

• He was shaking from the cold.
• She couldn’t stop shaking after the accident.

Apply 'quiver' when describing a slight, rapid movement that can be due to fear, cold, or excitement. It usually refers to a brief, subtle motion.

• Her lips began to quiver as she held back tears.
• The leaves quivered in the breeze.

Use 'trembling' to describe continuous, often severe shaking that can be due to fear, anxiety, or extreme cold. 'Trembling' usually conveys a stronger motion compared to 'quiver'.

• Her hands were trembling as she signed the document.
• He spoke with a trembling voice.

Typically used to describe slight, involuntary shakes or movements of the body, often due to illness, fear, or earthquakes.

• The patient experienced a mild tremor in his hands.
• During the earthquake, there was a significant tremor that shook the city.

A general term used for a wide range of movements from small vibrations to more vigorous movements, usually caused by external factors or emotions.

• She had to shake the bottle to mix the contents.
• He started to shake with laughter at the funny joke.

Often refers to a small, quick shaking or vibration, usually associated with emotion such as fear or excitement.

• Her voice began to quiver as she told the sad story.
• He felt a quiver of excitement as he opened the letter.

Describes a slight, often continuous shaking, often as a result of fear, anxiety, or cold.

• The dog began to tremble in the presence of the stranger.
• Her hands would tremble uncontrollably whenever she was nervous.