Definition of shudder

The word "shudder" has a fascinating history! The verb "shudder" originates from the Old English word "scodon," which means "to tremble" or "to quiver." This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*skudiz," which is related to the Proto-Indo-European root "*skeud-," meaning "to shake" or "to throw." The modern English verb "shudder" emerged in the 14th century, initially with the sense of "to tremble with fear or cold." Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include the idea of "to feel a crawling, creeping or prickling sensation" on one's skin, often in response to something unpleasant or frightening. In the 19th century, the phrase "shudder to think" became a popular idiom, implying a feeling of horror or revulsion at the thought of something. Today, "shudder" is used in a range of contexts, from describing physical reactions to conveying emotional responses.