get the shakes



get the shakes

To tremble or shake involuntarily, as due to fear, unease, anxiety, or a reaction to (or withdrawal from) a substance, such as caffeine, drugs, or alcohol. I've been doing public speaking for ten years, but I still get the shakes before going out in front of a large audience. I'm trying to get sober and haven't had a drink in four days, but I've been getting the shakes something fierce.
See also: get, shake

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
German['dʒə:mən]
Klavdija-Slovene
AbÍLioə-BEE-lyooPortuguese
FestusFES-təs (English)Ancient Roman, Biblical Latin, Biblical
TatuTAH-tooFinnish
Jurij-Slovene, Sorbian