Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

nerve-racking

American  
[nurv-rak-ing] / ˈnɜrvˌræk ɪŋ /
Or nerve-wracking

adjective

  1. extremely irritating, annoying, or trying.

    a nerve-racking day; a nerve-racking noise.


nerve-racking British  

adjective

  1. very distressing, exhausting, or harrowing

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of nerve-racking

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She hasn’t been denied reentry, but has found the bureaucratic process so complicated and nerve racking that she’s unsure whether she will be allowed to return or would qualify for protection under Biden’s program.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2024

"Before the 2013-14 Ashes series was pretty nerve racking to be honest," he says.

From BBC • Jun. 20, 2023

I do admire the photographer for making this image, I'm sure a very challenging and nerve racking session.

From New York Times • Dec. 8, 2017

It was nerve racking is you’re performing in front of the greats.

From Washington Times • Jan. 23, 2017

It's a maddening, nerve racking pace they go.

From Evening Round Up More Good Stuff Like Pep by Hunter, William Crosbie

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "nerve-racking" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com