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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

For example, research shows that women who are higher in neuroticism and perfectionism, lower in self-compassion or lower in self-efficacy are all more likely to struggle with negative body image.

From Salon • Feb. 22, 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

And she had grown proud of her neuroticism; she let father, mother and sister feel fear, pity and annoyance, with a sort of vindictive satisfaction.

From Dr. Adriaan by Couperus, Louis