estremecer
“estremecer” means “to shake” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to shake, to shudder
Also: to vibrate, to tremble
📝 In Action
El rugido del motor hizo estremecer el suelo.
B1The roar of the engine made the ground shake.
Ella se estremeció al sentir el viento helado en su cara.
B1She shuddered when she felt the icy wind on her face.
Un fuerte terremoto estremeció la ciudad durante la noche.
B2A strong earthquake shook the city during the night.
to move deeply, to shock
Also: to rattle
📝 In Action
La noticia del accidente estremeció a todo el país.
B2The news of the accident shocked the whole country.
Sus palabras de despedida me estremecieron el alma.
C1Her farewell words moved my soul deeply.
El escándalo estremeció los cimientos de la empresa.
C1The scandal shook the foundations of the company.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "estremecer" in Spanish:
to rattle→to shake→to shock→to shudder→to tremble→to vibrate→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: estremecer
Question 1 of 3
Which form of 'estremecer' is correct for 'I shake' (present tense)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'tremere' (to shake/tremble) with the prefix 'ex-' added to emphasize the outward movement of the shaking.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'estremecer' the same as 'temblar'?
They are close, but 'temblar' is more about a continuous shake (like shivering from cold), while 'estremecer' is often a more violent, sudden jolt or a deep emotional shock.
Is it 'estremecer' or 'estremecerse'?
Use 'estremecer' when one thing shakes another (The wind shakes the house). Use 'estremecerse' when a person shudders or trembles (I shuddered).
Is this a common word?
It is moderately common. You'll hear it in movies, read it in books, and see it in news reports about shocking events.