have the shakes

have 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 10 years, but I still had the shakes when I gave my speech to the packed auditorium. I'm trying to get sober and haven't had a drink in four days, but I've been having the shakes something fierce.
See also: have, shake
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • get 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