goose pimples

plural noun

1. goose bumps ( def ).

Other Words From

• goose-pimply adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of goose pimples¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Idioms and Phrases

Also, goose bumps or flesh . Temporary rough skin caused by small raised bumps. For example, Horror movies always give me goose pimples , or She tends to get goose bumps whenever she goes to the dentist . This expression likens the skin of a plucked goose to the condition of human skin when a person is cold or afraid. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

However, Ms Edwards said what gave her "goose pimples" was the couple's excitement to marry each other.

From BBC

A chill ran along Ophie’s arms, skittering down her skin and leaving goose pimples in its wake.

From Literature

“Being up there, with my fist raised – it was an amazing moment, and this captures it. It gives me goose pimples.”

From The Guardian

“I was mesmerized, and I had goose pimples, and total electricity in my body,” she said.

From New York Times

Her eyes narrow, and I quickly look away because it gives me the type of goose pimples people get in horror films when they sense the approach of the murderous antagonist.

From Literature

Related Words

• goose flesh
• gooseflesh
• horripilation