tremble

[ˈtrembl]

tremble Definition

  • 1to shake uncontrollably with quick movements from side to side or up and down, usually as a result of fear, excitement, or cold
  • 2to be afraid or nervous about something that might happen

Using tremble: Examples

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

  • Example

    I was trembling with fear when I saw the spider.

  • Example

    The ground trembled as the earthquake hit.

  • Example

    She trembled with excitement at the news.

  • Example

    He trembled with cold in the icy wind.

tremble Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tremble

Antonyms for tremble

Phrases with tremble

  • tremble at the thought/idea/prospect of something

    to feel very frightened or worried about something that might happen

    Example

    I tremble at the thought of having to speak in public.

  • tremble on the brink/edge/verge of something

    to be very close to a difficult or dangerous situation

    Example

    The company is trembling on the brink of bankruptcy.

  • to shake with anger

    Example

    He was trembling with rage when he heard the news.

Origins of tremble

from Old French 'trembler', meaning 'to tremble'

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Summary: tremble in Brief

The verb 'tremble' [ˈtrembl] means to shake uncontrollably due to fear, excitement, or cold. It can also mean to be afraid or nervous about something that might happen. Examples include 'I was trembling with fear when I saw the spider' and 'She trembled with excitement at the news.' The phrase 'tremble at the thought/idea/prospect of something' denotes being very frightened or worried about something that might happen.

How do native speakers use this expression?