Tremulously - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a shaky manner

In a trembling or quivering way, typically due to fear or nervousness. It can also indicate a sense of uncertainty or hesitation.

Synonyms

hesitantly, quiveringly, shakily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tremulously	Used to describe something that is done with a trembling or shaking motion, often due to fear, nervousness, or weakness. She spoke tremulously as she recounted her frightening experience His hands moved tremulously when he tried to hold the glass
shakily	Describes something done in an unsteady or unstable manner, often due to weakness, nervousness, or lack of confidence. He stood up shakily after being knocked down She wrote her name shakily, still affected by the scare
quiveringly	Describes something done with a slight, rapid shaking, often due to strong emotions such as fear, excitement, or cold. The dog stood quiveringly as it faced the stranger Her voice was quiveringly when she tried to hold back tears
hesitantly	Used to describe an action performed with uncertainty or reluctance, often due to lack of confidence or doubt. He hesitantly knocked on the door, unsure if he was welcome She hesitantly agreed to the plan, not fully convinced it would work

Examples of usage

She spoke tremulously, her voice barely audible.
He reached out a tremulously hand to touch the fragile object.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Tremulous responses are common physical reactions to stress, often linked to the body's 'fight or flight' response.
Feeling tremulous can indicate heightened anxiety, which may stem from various life situations or environments.
Studies suggest that minor tremors can enhance alertness but excessive shaking could hint at deeper anxiety issues.

Literature

Tremulous characters are often used in literature to convey vulnerability or strong emotional struggles.
In novels, authors use tremulous voices or actions to emphasize a character's fear, uncertainty, or excitement.
Classic examples are characters in Gothic literature who tremulously navigate haunted settings, reflecting their internal fears.

Pop Culture

Many horror films depict characters who walk tremulously in dark places, heightening the tension and suspense.
In pop music, lyrics that describe tremulous emotions resonate with listeners, capturing feelings of love and fear.
A famous scene in a classic movie shows a tremulous character facing their fears, highlighting the emotional range of such actions.

Origin of 'tremulously'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'tremulus', which means shaking or quivering.
It entered the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting the emotional state of fear or anxiety.
Related words include 'tremor', which is a term used to describe shaking or trembling usually in the body.

The adverb 'tremulously' is derived from the adjective 'tremulous', which dates back to the 16th century. The word 'tremulous' comes from the Latin word 'tremulus', meaning 'trembling'. Over time, the adverb form 'tremulously' has become commonly used to describe actions or speech that are shaky, quivering, or hesitant. It is often employed in literature to convey a sense of fear, nervousness, or uncertainty in characters or situations.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,849 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32846 scavenged
32847 bodywork
32848 regularize
32849 tremulously
32850 satiate
32851 cappuccino
32852 inseminated
...

Tremulously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations