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

But the market still seems to be turning skittish, with volatility creeping back up and stocks faltering in the home stretch of the year.

Read more on Barron's

But Nutsawoo had been unusually skittish of late, and came by the nursery rarely.

Read more on Literature

“Hmm. I’ll need my Always Waterproof Fashion Ostrich Leash. And my Savory Pickled Ostrich Treats; those will help lure her, if she’s feeling skittish.”

Read more on Literature

Even if some consumers are feeling skittish about Thanksgiving, experts are quick to point out there are always ways to economize for the holiday.

Read more on MarketWatch

A criticism of Pope is that he is often too skittish in Test cricket, but this innings was a calm one – albeit in gentle surroundings.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

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