gooseflesh

noun

goose·​flesh ˈgüs-ˌflesh How to pronounce gooseflesh (audio)
: goose bumps

Examples of gooseflesh in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scott felt the skin on his arms pebble like gooseflesh and the hair on the back of his neck stand up and salute. — Chris Nashawaty, WIRED, 30 July 2024 All gooseflesh and baby fat, John was perfect for holding, or so everyone said. — Katie Prout, Longreads, 26 May 2017 Despite the temperamental British weather (gray skies and gooseflesh are a seasonal hazard) most of the 40 or 50 bodies at this summer celebration are duly liberated. — Maureen O'Hare, CNN Money, 19 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1810, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gooseflesh was circa 1810

Rhymes for gooseflesh

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Browse Nearby Words

goosefish
gooseflesh
gooseflower
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gooseflesh.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gooseflesh. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on gooseflesh

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gooseflesh

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