nervousness

[nur-vuhs-nis]

noun

1. the state or condition of being highly, acutely, or unnaturally uneasy or excitable.

   There is always an element of nervousness or stage fright in public speaking.

   High levels of thyroid hormones can cause side effects such as weight loss, rapid heart rate, and nervousness.

Other Word Forms

• nonnervousness noun
• overnervousness noun
• seminervousness noun
• unnervousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of nervousness¹

nervous ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

He rejected the notion of a pervasive sense of nervousness.

From Los Angeles Times

There is also nervousness around the idea the US may insist Ukraine gives up land to Russia.

From BBC

It was a game many waited a lifetime for, with fans watching with nervousness and excitement as Wales played at their first ever major women's tournament.

From BBC

“Yeah, it’s definitely some more excitement than nervousness, for sure,” James said.

From Los Angeles Times

The fact the former South Africa captain, here on commentary duties, felt even the slightest tinge of nervousness after a day of batting domination offers an insight into the cricket psyche of his country.

From BBC

Related Words

• agitation 
• anger 
• disquiet 
• impatience 
• jitters www.thesaurus.com
• sensitivity 
• stage fright 
• stress 
• tension 
• turbulence 
• uneasiness www.thesaurus.com
• worry