a fever or shivering fit, typically one that recurs periodically, malaria or another illness involving fever and shivering

shake like an ague, ague cake, ague drop

Formal and Informal Expressions of ague

In different contexts, you can replace 'ague' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'fever, chill' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'shivers, malaria' is a commonplace synonym.

ague: Explore its Definition & Usage

ague Definition

1a fever or shivering fit, typically one that recurs periodically
2malaria or another illness involving fever and shivering

Using ague: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ague" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He was struck with ague and had to stay in bed for a week.
Example
The ague returned every few days, leaving him weak and exhausted.
Example
She caught the ague while traveling in the tropics.

ague Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ague

Phrases with ague

shake like an ague
to tremble or shiver uncontrollably, as if experiencing a fever or chills
Example
The poor man was shaking like an ague, his teeth chattering from the cold.
ague cake
a cake made with oatmeal, butter, and sugar, traditionally eaten during a bout of ague or fever
Example
Grandma used to make us ague cakes whenever we were sick, they always made us feel better.
ague drop
a remedy for ague or fever, typically made from a mixture of herbs and alcohol
Example
My great-grandmother swore by her ague drops, she said they cured everything from headaches to stomach aches.

Origins of ague

from Old French 'agu', meaning 'sharpness'

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Summary: ague in Brief

'Ague' [ˈeɪɡjuː] refers to a fever or shivering fit, often recurring periodically. It can also refer to malaria or other illnesses involving fever and shivering. Phrases like 'shake like an ague' use 'ague' to describe uncontrollable trembling or shivering, while 'ague cake' and 'ague drop' are traditional remedies for ague or fever.