English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Spine-tingling
Meaning
The idiom "spine-tingling" is used to describe a feeling of excitement, nervousness, or fear that makes one's spine tingle. It can also refer to a sudden chill or goosebumps.
Usage
- I get spine-tingling when I watch horror movies.
- The presentation left me with spine-tingling anticipation for the upcoming project.
- I can't stand the thought of spiders, it gives me spine-tingling shivers.
- The crowd cheered loudly as the band took the stage, giving me spine-tingling chills.
- She told me a ghost story that sent chills down my spine.
Roots and History
The idiom "spine-tingling" is believed to have originated in the 19th century, with its earliest known use appearing in print in 1827. It was first used in the context of describing a feeling of fear or excitement that made one's spine tingle. Over time, it has come to be used more broadly to describe any sensation that makes one's spine tingle, including nervousness, excitement, and even goosebumps.
Synonyms in English
- Goosebumps
- Chills down my spine
- A shiver runs down my spine
- My heart races with anticipation
- I get the heebie-jeebies
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: Piel de gallo (goosebumps)
- French: Frissons (chills)
- German: Kraftlosigkeit (feeling weak or numb)
- Italian: Crepuscoli (dusk or twilight)
- Dutch: Vals (fainting or feeling faint)