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frisson

noun

/ˈfriːsã/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of frisson

A sudden, intense shiver or thrill of excitement, often accompanied by a tingling sensation along the skin.
"The stunning view gave a frisson of awe to the onlookers."

Detailed meaning of frisson

It's a brief and usually pleasurable moment of heightened emotional or physical response that can be triggered by various sources, such as thrilling music, a suspenseful scene in a movie, or an emotionally charged moment in a book. When we use the term "frisson," we emphasize the electrifying and goosebump-inducing quality of the experience, which can range from a feeling of awe or exhilaration to a sense of being deeply moved or touched. Frissons are often associated with intense emotional or sensory stimulation and can be a powerful and memorable aspect of our response to art, music, or powerful storytelling.

Example sentences containing frisson

1. The suspenseful music gave the audience a frisson of excitement.
2. The sudden shock caused a frisson to run down her spine.
3. The close call elicited a frisson of fear in the drivers.
4. The eerie silence was interrupted by a frisson of laughter.
5. The thrilling rollercoaster ride produced a frisson of adrenaline.
6. The bizarre encounter left a frisson of uncertainty in her mind.

History and etymology of frisson

The noun 'frisson' has its etymological origins in French. It comes from the French word 'frisson,' which means 'shiver' or 'shudder.' In English, 'frisson' is used to describe a sudden, intense shiver or thrill of excitement, often accompanied by a tingling sensation along the skin. It signifies a moment of heightened emotional or sensory experience that sends a shiver down one's spine. The word captures the notion of a brief, electrifying sensation, akin to the shiver that can accompany intense emotions like fear, excitement, or awe. Therefore, the etymology of 'frisson' reflects its French heritage, emphasizing its role in describing a thrilling and spine-tingling moment, as conveyed by its linguistic roots.

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Further usage examples of frisson

1. As Susan walked to the podium to make her speech, a frisson of nervousness swept over her.
2. The unexpected twist in the story gave the reader a frisson of surprise.
3. The unexpected touch sent a frisson of pleasure through her body.
4. The beautiful artwork gave a frisson of inspiration to the artist.
5. The passionate speech elicited a frisson of emotion in the audience.
6. The intense passion between the lovers produced a frisson of desire.
7. As the orchestra played the crescendo, a frisson of excitement swept through the audience.
8. The unexpected reunion with an old friend sent a frisson of joy down her spine.
9. The eerie silence in the haunted house created a frisson of fear and anticipation.
10. The breathtaking view from the cliff edge gave him a frisson of awe and wonder.
11. The first notes of the symphony sent a frisson of emotion through the concertgoers.
12. Her passionate kiss gave him a frisson of desire and longing.
13. The roller coaster's sudden drop produced a frisson of exhilaration and fear.
14. A frisson of tension ran through the team as they prepared for the championship.
15. The twist in the mystery novel caused a frisson of surprise and intrigue.
16. The thunderstorm outside created a frisson of unease among the children.
17. The suspenseful movie scene elicited a frisson of anticipation from the audience.
18. The breathtaking beauty of the sunset filled her with a frisson of serenity.
19. The unexpected twist in the plot generated a frisson of excitement among readers.
20. The ghostly apparition in the dark alley gave her a frisson of fear and curiosity.
21. The thrilling race car experience provided a frisson of adrenaline and speed.
22. The heartfelt farewell speech brought a frisson of emotion to the crowd.
23. A frisson of nostalgia washed over him as he visited his childhood home.
24. The romantic surprise dinner created a frisson of love and affection.
25. The enchanting dance performance gave the audience a frisson of artistic appreciation.
26. The unexpected win in the game sent a frisson of celebration through the team.