# shake like a leaf

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/shake-like-a-leaf
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To tremble, as with fear, cold, etc.; to shiver.

## Examples

- I always shake like a leaf before a big test.
- When the doctor told him he needed surgery, he started to shake like a leaf.
- Standing alone on the stage before the massive audience, the young musician began to shake like a leaf as the lights dimmed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.