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quiver

verb

/ˈkwɪv ər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of quiver

To tremble or shake slightly, often in a rapid and involuntary manner.
"Her voice begins to quiver with emotion as she tells her story."

Detailed meaning of quiver

When something quivers, it experiences a subtle and rapid vibratory movement. This movement is typically characterized by a slight shaking or trembling, indicating a delicate or nervous state. The verb can describe both animate and inanimate objects. For instance, a person may quiver with fear, excitement, or anticipation, displaying visible signs of trembling. Similarly, objects such as leaves on a tree or a small animal's tail can quiver due to external forces like wind or muscle contractions. The term "quiver" implies a momentary and subtle shaking motion, often associated with a heightened emotional or physical response.

Example sentences containing quiver

1. Cold, I wrap my coat tight; still, my lips quiver, silent and white.
2. I hold his gaze, yet my hands quiver, exposing the fear I can't hide.
3. She tries to speak; her voice quivers, betraying a tumult inside.
4. The leaf quiver in the wind, whispering secrets of a world unkind.
5. With every note, strings quiver, weaving a song that lingers.
6. As the light fades, shadows quiver, dancing to the moon’s silent song.

History and etymology of quiver

The verb 'quiver,' in the sense of trembling or shaking slightly, often in a rapid and involuntary manner, has its etymological roots in Old English. It can be traced back to the Old English word 'cwifer,' which meant 'nimble' or 'quick.' This term evolved over time to encompass the idea of slight, rapid movements, much like the nimbleness of something in motion. As the word progressed through Middle English, it came to signify the trembling or shivering sensation we associate with 'quivering' today. Thus, the etymology of 'quiver' reveals its historical connection to the notion of quick, subtle movements that result in a tremulous or shaking effect, capturing the essence of its modern usage.

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Further usage examples of quiver

1. Amidst the crowd, my heart quivers, lost in a sea of voices.
2. Winds howl; amidst silence, branches quiver, echoing nature's choices.
3. In autumn’s chill, fragile petals quiver, bowing to the inevitable.
4. Echoes of laughter; yet, walls quiver, haunted by the unattainable.
5. He stands tall, but beneath, feet quiver, grounding a soul untamable.
6. The little bird's wings quiver as it prepares to take flight.
7. The leaves on the tree quiver in the gentle breeze.
8. Fear caused his hands to quiver uncontrollably.
9. The rabbit's nose twitches and its whiskers quiver in anticipation.
10. The athlete's muscles quiver with exhaustion after a long race.
11. The violinist's bow causes the strings to quiver, producing a beautiful sound.
12. A sense of excitement made her heart quiver with anticipation.
13. The old man's voice quivers as he reminisces about his youth.
14. The cold wind makes my whole body quiver.
15. The young girl's lower lip starts to quiver as she holds back tears.
16. The surface of the pond quivers as the fish swim beneath it.
17. The spider's web quivers with the movements of trapped insects.
18. She felt a shiver run down her spine, causing her body to quiver.
19. His smile causes her heart to quiver with delight.
20. The dog's tail starts to quiver when it sees its owner approaching.
21. The tension in the room makes the air quiver with anticipation.
22. The dancer's muscles quiver with grace and precision.
23. The tree branch begins to quiver under the weight of the squirrel.
24. The sound of thunder makes the ground quiver beneath our feet.