rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryquiverSlight trembling
verb / noun

quiver

KWIV-er/ˈkwɪvər/

A slight, rapid shaking movement.

The tuning fork quivers rapidly while its stem remains clamped in place.

A vibrating tuning fork, with its stem held steady in a small clamp and closely spaced motion traces at the tips showing slight, rapid trembling.
Etymology
quaverProbable sourceEnglishto tremble

Probably related to quaver or an older lively-movement word. The exact formation is uncertain; the arrow-case noun has a separate ancestry.

In context

Libranima23:49
the spear stuck in his heart, which still beat, and made the butt- end of the spear quiver
The Iliad - Homer (Illustrated Audiobook) Part 2 of 2

More examples

  • A slight quiver passes through her lower lip.
  • His voice has a noticeable quiver when he speaks.
  • My legs quivered with exhaustion after the steep climb.

Forms

quiver · quivers · quivered · quivering

Similar words

tremble
Often describes involuntary shaking from fear, cold, or weakness.
shudder
Suggests a sudden, stronger shake, often involving the whole body.
vibrate
Emphasizes regular back-and-forth motion, often caused by mechanical forces.