tremor

noun

trem·​or ˈtre-mər 

1

a

: a trembling or shaking usually from physical weakness, emotional stress, or disease

b

: nervous excitement

2

: a quivering or vibratory motion

especially : a discrete small movement following or preceding a major seismic event

tremors being felt days after the earthquake

3

a

: a feeling of uncertainty or insecurity

a tremor of hesitation

b

: a cause of such a feeling

Synonyms of tremor

• quake
• earthquake

Examples of tremor in a Sentence

Small tremors were still being felt several days after the earthquake.

I heard a tremor in her voice.

His tremors were caused by the disease.

Recent Examples on the Web

Though the Labour Party has overtaken Reform UK in several polls, early tremors in the bond market, driven by uncertainties over Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s agenda, could well lead to more political instability. — Jeremy Hunt, Washington Post, 18 Aug. 2026

Immediately after receiving the ultrasound therapy on April 13, Leavell said his tremor was gone. — Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Conflict in the region therefore sends immediate tremors through energy markets. — Monica Sanders, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

For many like myself, the feeling of tilting and shaking doesn't stop once the tremor of an earthquake has passed. — New Atlas, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tremour, from Anglo-French tremor, from Latin, from tremere

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for tremor

• emmer
• condemnor

Kids Definition

tremor

noun

trem·​or ˈtrem-ər 

1

: a trembling or shaking usually caused by weakness or disease

2

: a quivering or vibrating motion

especially : a small movement of the earth before or after an earthquake

Medical Definition

tremor

noun

trem·​or ˈtrem-ər 

: a trembling or shaking usually from physical weakness, emotional stress, or disease

tremors of the hands