frisson

Definitions from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 French 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Noun

[edit] French

[edit] Etymology

From Latin frīgeō (“‘to be cold’”).

[edit] Pronunciation

•  audio^{help, file}
• IPA: /fʁi.sɔ̃/
• SAMPA: /fRi.sO~/

[edit] Noun

frisson (plural frissons)

1. A French word intended to convey the shiver or thrill of fright that can be strangely pleasurable. As when reading good horror fiction. Sometimes accompanied by the sensation of the hairs raising on the back of the neck. Note that this is not synonymous with fear which is a more powerful and visceral feeling.
2. An experience of intense excitement.