skittish

[skit-ish]

adjective

1. apt to start or shy.

   a skittish horse.

2. restlessly or excessively lively.

   a skittish mood.

3. fickle; uncertain.

4. shy; coy.

skittish

/ ˈskɪtɪʃ /

adjective

1. playful, lively, or frivolous

2. difficult to handle or predict

3. rare,  coy

Other Word Forms

• skittishly adverb
• skittishness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of skittish¹

1375–1425; late Middle English, perhaps derivative of the Scand source of skite ¹; -ish ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of skittish¹

C15: probably of Scandinavian origin; compare Old Norse skjōta to _shoot ; see _-ish

Example Sentences

As someone who tends to get a little skittish about communal chip bowls or dip platters, the individual chips bags are really appealing.

From Salon

While coyotes are a common fixture in many Southern California neighborhoods, the canines are typically skittish and avoid interactions with humans, according to Fish and Wildlife.

From Los Angeles Times

“She was 9 months old and just literally calm and sweet and not skittish whatsoever,” Palacios said.

From Los Angeles Times

Pope was typically skittish but it is to his credit that he dug in alongside Root, who almost ran his partner out with a short single to mid-wicket when Pope had 19.

From BBC

Harry Brook was skittish in making 30 not out - he finished alongside Joe Root who has 18 - and could easily have deepened England's woes.

From BBC

Related Words

• edgy 
• excited 
• fearful 
• fickle 
• giddy 
• jumpy 
• restive