Need another word for Nervous? Use these synonyms of Nervous from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
anxious
apprehensive
fearful
uneasy
tense
jittery
on edge
high-strung
edgy
fidgety
restless
skittish
timid
shy
introverted
sensitive
emotional
fragile
unstable
volatile
irritable
excitable
temperamental
moody
neurotic
hysterical
frantic
panicked
worried
concerned
troubled
distressed
upset
perturbed
disquieted
uncomfortable
awkward
self-conscious
embarrassed
flustered
rattled
shaken
intimidated
Meaning of Nervous
The primary meaning of the word "nervous" is feeling or showing anxiety or apprehension about something.
Definitions
- Feeling or showing anxiety or apprehension about something
- * Relating to or affecting the nerves
- * Having a nervous system or nerves that are highly sensitive or reactive
Etymology of Nervous
The word "nervous" comes from the Latin "nervosus", meaning "sinewy" or "full of strength", which is derived from "nervus", meaning "sinew" or "nerve"
Historically, the term "nervous" was used to describe something that was related to or affected the nerves, but over time its meaning expanded to include emotional and psychological connotations
Example Uses
- She felt nervous before her job interview
- * He was nervous about meeting his girlfriend's parents for the first time
- * The crowd was nervous with anticipation as they waited for the concert to start
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
calm
relaxed
serene
tranquil
composed
confident
self-assured
fearless
courageous
bold
daring
adventurous
carefree
easygoing
laid-back
unmoved
unflappable
imperturbable
stoic
indifferent
apathetic
unconcerned
untroubled
unruffled