be quaking in (one's) boots

be quaking in (one's) boots

To be trembling with fear. Often used sarcastically. Ooh, I'm really scared of you! I'm quaking in my boots, you frighten me so!See also: boot, quake

be quaking in your boots

If someone is quaking in their boots, they are very frightened about something that is about to happen. If you stand up straight you'll give an impression of self confidence even if you're quaking in your boots. Note: Verbs such as shake, shiver, and tremble are sometimes used instead of quake. Someone had to tell the packed club that he wouldn't be appearing — you can imagine me shaking in my boots.See also: boot, quake