Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

neuroticism

American  
[noo-rot-uh-siz-uhm, nyoo-] / nʊˈrɒt əˌsɪz əm, nyʊ- /

noun

  1. the state of having traits or symptoms characteristic of neurosis.


neuroticism British  
/ njʊˈrɒtɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

  1. a personality trait characterized by instability, anxiety, aggression, etc

"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 neuroticism

First recorded in 1895–1900; neurotic 1 + -ism

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.

Similarly, those characterized by higher conscientiousness, openness, and agreeableness, as well as lower neuroticism and extraversion, were also more likely to adopt healthier behaviors.

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2024

While some studies have linked high variability with neuroticism, others have failed to do so.

From Scientific American • Apr. 5, 2023

And then, of course, there’s this: “Females on average score higher than males on the personality trait of neuroticism, defined as anxiety, emotional volatility, and susceptibility to depression.”

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2023

Psychologists have identified what’s known as the “Big Five” personality traits, which are consistent across populations: extroversion, openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness and neuroticism.

From New York Times • Mar. 5, 2023

Irregularity and pain in menstruation are a frequent cause of neuroticism.

From The Sexual Question A Scientific, psychological, hygienic and sociological study by Forel, Auguste