trembling
UK: ˈtrɛmblɪŋ | US: ˈtrɛmblɪŋ
adj. shaking involuntarily, typically due to fear, cold, or weakness
n. the action or state of shaking involuntarily
trembling = trembl<to shake> + ing<present participle suffix>
- trembl (from Old French trembler, meaning "to shake," derived from Latin tremere "to tremble")
- ing (English suffix forming present participles or gerunds)
Etymology Origin:
The word "trembling" originates from the Old French trembler, which itself stems from the Latin tremere, meaning "to shake." The Latin root trem- is imitative of the physical act of shaking, reflecting a natural sound-meaning association. Over time, the suffix -ing was added in English to form the present participle or gerund, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the action. The word vividly captures the physical manifestation of fear, cold, or weakness through its etymological roots.
Her hands were trembling as she held the letter.
The dog stood trembling in the corner during the thunderstorm.
He spoke with a trembling voice, barely concealing his emotion.
The leaves were trembling in the gentle breeze.
She felt a trembling sensation run down her spine.