frisson
Say it: FREE-son /ˈfriːsɒ̃/ · noun
What “frisson” means
A sudden shiver of excitement or fear.
More precisely: A sudden thrill of excitement or fear.
Example: “There was a frisson in the room when the CEO walked in unannounced.”
When to use it
For a brief, thrilling sensation sparked by music, suspense or surprise, often in descriptive or literary writing.
Memory trick
French for shiver: remember the little physical jolt that comes with a sudden thrill.
Similar words
thrill, shiver, tingle
Where it comes from
French, 'shiver, thrill'.
Quick check
The orchestra suddenly swells, sending a brief exciting shiver down your spine. You feel…
a frisson or a sense of relief?
Show the answer
a frisson
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