verb
grelotter
shiver
The French verb "grelotter" means to shiver or to tremble, especially because of cold. It describes the physical reaction of the body to feeling cold, where someone shakes slightly to generate warmth.
Example:
- Il grelotte parce qu'il a froid. — He is shivering because he is cold.
Synonyms and differences:
- Trembler: Means "to tremble" or "to shake," and is more general. It can refer to shivering from cold but also shaking out of fear, excitement, or weakness.
- Frissonner: Means "to shiver" or "to shudder," sometimes implying a brief or small shiver, such as a sudden chill or emotional reaction.
- Grelotter: Specifically evocative of shivering due to cold, often with a slightly continuous or repeated shaking.
So, grelotter is the best choice when you want to emphasize shivering caused by cold temperatures.
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Examples
Je commence à grelotter dehors.verb
I am starting to shiver outside.
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