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Synonyms

goose bumps

American  
[goos-buhmps] / ˈgusˌbʌmps /
Or goosebumps

plural noun

  1. a rough condition of the skin, resembling that of a plucked goose, induced by cold or fear; horripilation.


Etymology

Origin of goose bumps

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Then there are 1997 Kobe Bryant Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Green cards, which just by typing that highfalutin name can give even the most savvy collector goose bumps.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

"I had a lot of goose bumps watching it."

From BBC • Jan. 10, 2025

On a walk around Central Park this fall, he repeatedly pointed to his forearms to show that the conversation had given him goose bumps.

From New York Times • Jan. 19, 2024

When we saw the results, we all got goose bumps.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 1, 2023

As Mami pulled her feet onto the rungs of her rocking chair and rubbed the goose bumps from her arms, I imagined a world of fascinating creatures slithering underfoot, drawing squiggly patterns on the dirt.

From "When I Was Puerto Rican" by Esmeralda Santiago

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