tremble
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtrɛm.bəl/
KK: /ˈtrɛmbl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To shake or shiver, often because of fear, anxiety, or excitement.
Example
She began to tremble when she heard the loud noise.
Tense Forms
Past: trembled
Past Participle: trembled
Conversation
Did you see that scary movie last night?
Yeah, I was trembleing the whole time!
I couldn't believe how intense it was.
Right? My heart was racing and I couldn't stop trembleing!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
shake
quiver
shudder
Antonyms
calm
steady
stabilize
noun
Definition
A state or act of shaking or quivering, often due to fear or excitement.
Example
She felt a tremble in her hands as she prepared to speak in front of the crowd.
Conversation
Did you feel that tremble during the earthquake last night?
Yeah, it was pretty intense!
I wasn't sure if it was just me or if everyone felt that tremble.
Root Explanation
Tremble → It originates from Old English 'tremian' (meaning to tremble or shake), which is related to the Proto-Germanic '*tremōną' (meaning to tremble). The word describes the act of shaking or quivering, often due to fear or anxiety.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word 'tremian' which means to shake — this helps you remember that to tremble means to shake or quiver.
Visually Confused Words
atremble
treble
remble
tembe
thrimble
retumble
resemble
rejumble