Horripilation is the bristling of hair on the skin from cold or fright. Horripilation derives from the Latin words horripilātiōn and horripilātiō (bristling of hair) and horripilāre (to shudder).
Horripilation is essentially the perfect sesquipedalian word for goose bumps, or as I occasionally call them, goose pimples. Horripilation also sounds a bit more sinister and almost scientific. I mean saying “I was in a state of horripilation all night.” or “She’s currently experiencing horripilation of the flesh.” just sounds all kinds of awesome! Horripilation is also an ideal Halloween word (check out this post for a list of several Halloween appropriate words)!
Cool air and scary stories can put one in a state of horripilation quite easily!
Horripilation is a brand new word to me and I beyond tickled to be able to share it…I’m even feeling a bit of horripilation right now in anticipation of posting, or is it the open window where that icy breeze is blowing in?!
Namaste ~ Ella
*Check out the Word Nerd Index and my Word Nerd Pinterest Board for other superb words!
** If there’s a word you’d like to see added to the Word Nerd roster, please feel free to contact me or suggest it in the comments – I love feedback and recommendations!
Lawhimsy 