nervousness

[nur-vuhs-nis]

noun

1. the state or condition of being highly, acutely, or unnaturally uneasy or excitable.

   There is always an element of nervousness or stage fright in public speaking.

   High levels of thyroid hormones can cause side effects such as weight loss, rapid heart rate, and nervousness.

Other Word Forms

• nonnervousness noun
• overnervousness noun
• seminervousness noun
• unnervousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of nervousness¹

nervous ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

A new school year brings an array of feelings: excitement, anticipation, nervousness, homesickness.

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But in the face of growing nervousness from the countries bordering Russia, neither Nato nor Poland are taking any chances.

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Although Poland has experienced several violations of its airspace since neighbouring Ukraine was attacked by Russia in February 2022, this latest incursion - sizeable, and deep into Polish territory - sparked real nervousness in Warsaw.

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He rejected the notion of a pervasive sense of nervousness.

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There is also nervousness around the idea the US may insist Ukraine gives up land to Russia.

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Related Words

• agitation 
• anger 
• disquiet 
• impatience 
• jitters www.thesaurus.com
• sensitivity 
• stage fright 
• stress 
• tension 
• turbulence 
• uneasiness www.thesaurus.com
• worry