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thrill

n. · v.
US //ˈθɹɪɫ// UK //θɹˈɪl// thrill
  1. 1 excitement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a sudden feeling of great excitement, pleasure, or fear.

    a sudden feeling of intense emotion, excitement, or pleasure, often described as a physical sensation.

    Example

    She felt a thrill of excitement when she saw her name on the list.

    Example

    The mountain climber described the pure thrill of reaching the summit after weeks of grueling physical exertion.
  2. 2 an exciting event (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    something that causes you to feel very excited.

    an experience or event that produces a sudden wave of excitement or pleasure.

    Example

    It was a real thrill to meet the famous author in person.

    Example

    For many travelers, the primary thrill of visiting the city is exploring its hidden underground markets.
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  1. 3 medical vibration (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Medicine

    a vibration that a doctor can feel when touching the body, usually near the heart.

    a fine vibration felt by an examiner on palpation, typically associated with a heart murmur or vascular turbulence.

    Example

    The doctor felt a slight thrill when checking the patient's chest.

    Example

    The presence of a palpable thrill over the carotid artery suggested significant turbulent blood flow requiring further investigation.
  2. 4 to excite someone (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to make someone feel very excited or happy.

    to cause someone to experience a sudden wave of intense emotion or pleasure.

    Example

    The news of the wedding thrilled the entire family.

    Example

    The soloist's virtuosic performance thrilled the audience, leading to a standing ovation that lasted several minutes.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice as 'to be thrilled'.
  3. 5 to vibrate (v.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    to shake or vibrate slightly.

    to experience or cause a trembling or quivering sensation.

    Example

    Her voice thrilled with emotion as she told the story.

    Example

    A low note from the organ made the very air in the cathedral thrill and hum.
Etymology 1

From Old English þȳrlian (“to pierce”), derived from þȳrel (“hole”) (archaic English thirl). Doublet of thirl (verb).

Etymology 2

Blend of thread (verb) + drill (verb).

Idioms4 entries

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