What does shaking mean?
Shaking is the act of moving rapidly or trembling, whether from an external force such as an earthquake or from an internal feeling such as fear, cold, anger, or nervousness. As a verb, it describes a person, object, or part of the body moving in short, unsteady motions. It is also used figuratively for situations in which people or institutions are profoundly unsettled, as in a warning that leaves a room shaking. The related noun refers to the movement itself or to a serious shock or disturbance. Shaking is especially common in descriptions of physical reactions, but it can also convey the intensity of public anger, fear, or upheaval. In formal writing, trembling or vibrating may be preferred when the movement is controlled or mechanically produced, while shaking is often more vivid and emotionally direct.
To move rapidly or repeatedly from side to side, vibrate, or tremble; to be unable to keep the body or voice steady because of fear, cold, illness, or strong emotion.
"His hands began to shake as he opened the letter."
Can be transitive or intransitive. “Shake hands” is a conventional expression, while “shake with fear” describes a bodily or emotional reaction.
The act of shaking or trembling; a state of agitation or shock, especially affecting people or an institution.
"There was a noticeable shaking of the ground after the explosion."
Usually uncountable when referring to a physical movement or emotional state.
Rare and chiefly used in specialized or literary contexts; the usual noun form is uncountable.
"The old building was still experiencing the aftershocks and shakings of the night."
The word that describes every nervous handshake, earthquake tremor, and voice that refuses to stay steady.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shaking come from?
Shaking comes from the Old English verb sceacan, meaning “to move quickly” or “to tremble.” Its historical forms developed into modern “shake,” with the present participle “shaking” formed according to standard English spelling rules. Related forms include “shaker” and “shaky,” which preserve the same verbal root.
Related word forms
How shaking is actually used
The form is both a present participle and a gerund, so it can follow a form of “be” or serve as a noun: “He was shaking” and “the shaking of the windows.” The noun is usually uncountable and refers to a physical movement or emotional state; “shakings” is uncommon.
Easily confused with shaking
Shaking describes an action or movement, whereas shaky describes something unsteady, uncertain, or liable to shake.