Make your skin crawl Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Intensity The phrase conveys a strong emotional reaction, often related to fear or disgust. The way he stared at me made my skin crawl. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal It's figurative speech. Your skin doesn't actually move, it expresses a strong inner feeling. Seeing the snake up close made her skin crawl. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Contexts It's used in negative situations. It's not suitable for positive or neutral experiences. The sight of all that trash made my skin crawl.