get the shakes
get the shakes
To tremble or shake involuntarily, as due to fear, unease, anxiety, or a reaction to (or withdrawal from) a substance, such as caffeine, drugs, or alcohol. I've been doing public speaking for ten years, but I still get the shakes before going out in front of a large audience. I'm trying to get sober and haven't had a drink in four days, but I've been getting the shakes something fierce.
See also: get, shake
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
- have the shakes
- give (someone) the shakes
- the shakes
- knock (one's) knees together
- knock knees together
- tremble at
- tremble at (something)
- go hot and cold
- go hot and cold (all over)
- shake in (one's) boots