a chill runs down (one's) spine

a chill runs down (one's) spine

A shudder is felt down one's back, due to either fear, anticipation, nervousness, or excitement. A chill runs down my spine every time I walk by that creepy old house. I felt a chill run down my spine at the thought of my exam tomorrow. I'm sorry, but every time you remind me that your pet tarantula is in the next room, a chill runs down my spine.

See also: chill, down, run, spine

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

a ˈchill runs/goes down somebody’s spine

,

send a ˈchill up/down somebody’s spine

feel, or make somebody feel, horror and fear: When I read the details of the murder, a chill ran down my spine. ♢ The picture sent a chill up my spine. ▶ ˈspine-chilling adj.: a spine-chilling horror novel

See also: chill, down, goes, run, spine

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017