on edge

1. Tense, nervous, irritable, as in We were all on edge as we waited for the surgeon's report. This expression transfers the edge of a cutting instrument to one's feelings. [Late 1800s] Also see on the edge; set one's teeth on edge.

Example Sentences

The US political world has been on edge and concerns about security have been rising across the country since conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a university in Utah.

From BBC

Since then a fragile ceasefire has held, although a war of words, fuelled by nationalist sentiments on social media, has kept both sides on edge.

From BBC

According to Politico, three lobbyists familiar with recent meetings between food industry insiders and the White House described a sector on edge, anxious about what they see as potential government overreach via MAHA.

From Salon

"I was completely on edge and didn't sleep a single wink for two nights," said the 47-year-old from Llanharan, Rhondda Cynon Taf.

From BBC

Epping resident Sonnie Mead, 29, said the latest decision "could put people a little bit on edge - it's a weird time and a weird world we're living in".

From BBC