Shivering is the present participle of the verb shiver. It refers to the involuntary trembling of the body, especially in response to cold, fear, or excitement. In phonetic transcription, shivering is spelled as /ˈʃɪvərɪŋ/. The first syllable of the word begins with the "sh" sound (/ʃ/) followed by a short "i" sound (/ɪ/). The second syllable consists of the vowel "e" pronounced as a schwa sound (/ə/), the consonant "v" (/v/) and the suffix "-ing" pronounced as /ɪŋ/.
Shivering is a term that refers to the involuntary action or bodily response of the muscles to cold temperatures. It is characterized by the rapid and rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the muscles, causing a visible trembling or shaking of the body. Shivering is most commonly experienced when the body is exposed to low temperatures, as it acts as a natural mechanism to generate heat and increase body temperature.
The process of shivering originates in the brain. When the body's internal temperature drops below a certain level, the brain sends signals to the muscles to rapidly contract and relax. This rapid muscle movement helps to generate heat by increasing the metabolic rate and promoting the production of heat.
Shivering can also occur in response to other stimuli, such as fear, anxiety, or excitement. In these cases, it may be a result of the body's natural fight-or-flight response, causing heightened muscle tension and tremors.
Shivering can be accompanied by other physical sensations, including goosebumps, as the body attempts to conserve heat. It also commonly leads to feelings of coldness and discomfort.
Overall, shivering serves as an important physiological response to low temperatures, allowing the body to safeguard against hypothermia by generating heat and maintaining a stable internal temperature.
1. Trembling from cold or fear. 2. A spasmodic affection, resembling chorea, affecting the thigh muscles of the horse.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A trembling; a shaking with cold or fear.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "shivering" can be traced back to the Old English verb "scīferan" or "sceofan", which meant "to shake or tremble violently". This verb derived from the Proto-Germanic base "*skif-" which meant "to split" or "cleave". Over time, the meaning of "scīferan" evolved to refer specifically to the trembling or shaking of the body due to cold or fear, resulting in the modern term "shivering".