Synonyms for

Chills

Verb / tʃɪlz / Another word for chills — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Chills are a feeling of coldness that often comes with a fever or when you're afraid.

Synonyms & similar words

gelidity shivering frisson shudder tingle iciness quiver heat thrill chill cooldown shiver cool pall shivers goosebumps tremors shudders quivers quakes vibrations twitches convulsions spasms thrills excitement hysteria anxiety fear panic terror dread apprehension unease

Synonyms by register

Formal

shivering tremor ague

Informal

goosebumps shivers the creeps

Literary

quiver shudder

Antonyms

warmth comfort heat calmness soothing relaxation

Common collocations

  • get the chills
  • chills down my spine
  • a chill in the air
  • chills and fever
  • winter chills
  • chills of fear
  • feel the chills

Word family

noun chill
verb chill
adjective chilly
adverb chillingly

Usage note

When referring to a physical sensation of coldness, 'chill' is often used informally. In a medical context, it can refer to a symptom of illness, often accompanied by fever.

Example sentences

  1. I got the chills when I walked into the haunted house.
  2. She had chills all night because she was sick.
  3. He felt chills run down his spine when he heard the scary story.
  4. The thought of jumping out of an airplane gives me chills.
  5. I always get chills when I hear the national anthem.

Quotes

  • I've got chills, they're multiplying, and I'm losing control.
  • The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize and my chills.
  • When I get the chills, I get up and dance.

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