Synonyms for

Nervous

Verb / ˈnɜ:vʌs / Another word for nervous — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling worried, anxious, or afraid about something

Synonyms & similar words

unquiet anxious spooky queasy neural flighty skittish uneasy aflutter anxious worried apprehensive edgy jittery tense uneasy fidgety restless agitated unsettled panicky scared fearful timid shy nail-biting jumpy fearful

Synonyms by register

Formal

apprehensive anxious disquieted uneasy

Informal

antsy jumpy on edge shaky wigged out

Literary

trepidatious discomposed agitated

Antonyms

calm confident composed relaxed assured unconcerned poised

Common collocations

  • nervous breakdown
  • nervous system
  • nervous tic
  • nervous energy
  • nervous habit
  • nervous wreck
  • nervous disposition

Word family

noun nervousness
adjective nervous
adverb nervously

Usage note

Often used to describe a feeling of unease or apprehension before an event. Can also refer to the body's physiological response to stress.

Example sentences

  1. I feel nervous before taking a test.
  2. The new student was nervous about making friends.
  3. The dog was nervous during the thunderstorm.
  4. She felt nervous when speaking in front of a large audience.
  5. He was nervous about asking his crush to the dance.

Quotes

  • I'm always nervous about everything. - Donatella Versace
  • I'm nervous about everything - I always have been. - David Blaine
  • I get nervous all the time. I'm nervous now. - Elizabeth Gilbert

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