Nervous

Definition

Nervous is an adjective. It describes a state of being anxious, tense, or easily agitated. It can also relate to the nerves in the body or the nervous system.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɜːr.vəs/
• Respelling: NUR-vuhs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɜː.vəs/
• Respelling: NUR-vuhs

Etymology

The word "nervous" originates from the Latin "nervosus," meaning "sinewy, vigorous," derived from "nervus," meaning "nerve" or "sinew." It entered Middle English via Old French "nervos," with its modern sense of "anxious" emerging later.

Derivatives

• Nervously (adverb)
• Nervousness (noun)
• Nerve (noun)
• Nerveless (adjective)
• Nervy (adjective)

Synonyms

• Anxious
• Apprehensive
• Uneasy

Antonyms

• Calm
• Confident
• Relaxed

Usage

The term "nervous" is used to describe emotional or physical tension. For example, "She felt nervous before her presentation," or "The nervous system controls the body's responses."

Related Terms

• Stress: A state of mental or emotional strain.
• Anxiety: A feeling of worry or unease.
• Neurology: The branch of medicine dealing with the nervous system.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Feeling or showing anxiety or apprehension:
  • Example: "He was nervous about the upcoming exam."
• Relating to or affecting the nerves or nervous system:
  • Example: "The injury caused damage to his nervous system."
• Easily agitated or highly sensitive:
  • Example: "The nervous horse shied away from loud noises."