English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adjective

quaking

Quaking (adjective) means shaking uncontrollably, typically from fear, cold, or shock. Example: “He stood there quaking, too frightened to speak.”

adjective
1
Shaking uncontrollably, typically from fear, cold, or shock.
"He stood there quaking, too frightened to speak."
noun
1
The act of trembling or shaking.
"A slight quaking in her voice betrayed her nerves."

How to Use Quaking

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTrembling or shaking, usually from fear or cold.

Common pairings
quaking with fear quaking voice quaking hands

Word Forms

quakings plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “quaking” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

He stood there _____, too frightened to speak.

Etymology

From Old English cwacung, the noun form of "quake."

Origin: Old English

Related Words

Rhymes for quaking

See all rhymes for quaking →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “quaking” mean?

The word “quaking” means shaking uncontrollably, typically from fear, cold, or shock. In plain terms, trembling or shaking, usually from fear or cold.

How do you use “quaking” in a sentence?

Here is “quaking” used in a sentence: “He stood there quaking, too frightened to speak.”

What part of speech is “quaking”?

Depending on how it is used, “quaking” can be an adjective and a noun.

Where does the word “quaking” come from?

The word “quaking” comes from Old English. From Old English cwacung, the noun form of "quake.".

How many meanings does “quaking” have?

“Quaking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: shaking uncontrollably, typically from fear, cold, or shock.

Featured In

People Also Searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial