shivers
|shiv/ers|
🇺🇸
/ˈʃɪvər/
🇬🇧
/ˈʃɪvə/
(shiver)
tremble slightly
Etymology
'shiver' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'shiveren' (also spelled 'schiveren'), where the root meant 'to break into pieces'.
'shiver' changed from the Middle English word 'shiveren' (originally carrying the sense 'break into pieces') and by later Middle English developed the sense 'to tremble', eventually becoming the modern English word 'shiver'.
Initially, it meant 'to break into pieces', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to tremble or shake'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'shiver': brief involuntary tremors of the body caused by cold, fear, or excitement.
She felt shivers run down her arms when the wind blew.
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Noun 2
an intense feeling of fear, disgust, or excitement often expressed as 'the shivers' or 'give someone the shivers' (goosebumps, a chill running down the spine).
The creepy story gave me the shivers.
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Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'shiver': to tremble or shake slightly, typically from cold or fear.
He shivers every time he goes outside without a coat.
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Last updated: 2025/10/03 18:12