What does shivery mean?
“Shivery” is an adjective meaning that someone or something is trembling slightly. The word commonly describes the physical reaction to intense cold, fear, nervousness, or excitement: a person may feel shivery before an examination, shiver with fright, or become shivery after a long swim. It can also refer to a movement or expression that conveys these feelings, as in a “shiver of fear” or a “shivery smile.” The term is informal and conversational, but widely understood in both British and American English. Compared with the more neutral “trembling,” “shivery” often suggests a small, involuntary reaction and may carry a mild emotional or physical intensity. It is especially useful when describing the way an emotional state becomes visible through the body.
adjectiveShivering or trembling slightly, especially because of cold, fear, excitement, or nervousness. It describes a person or thing that is quivering or shaking.
- Trembling slightly or shivering, especially because of cold, fear, nervousness, or excitement.
"She felt shivery as she waited for the results."
"The children were getting shivery after swimming in the cold sea."
"He gave a shivery smile as he began his first public performance."
A tiny tremor can reveal a whole inner state: cold, fear, anticipation, or excitement can make someone feel shivery.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shivery come from?
“Shivery” is an English adjective formed from the verb “shiver” with the suffix “-y,” which creates a descriptive form associated with trembling. The related verb “shiver” has a long history in English and is linked to older forms expressing shaking or trembling. The modern adjective developed within English rather than being borrowed directly from another language.
Related word forms
How shivery is actually used
Common in informal British and American English. It often describes a person feeling physically tremulous, but can also modify a sensation, sound, or reaction.
Easily confused with shivery
“Shiver” is usually a verb or noun, while “shivery” is an adjective describing a trembling condition.