neurosis

[noo-roh-sis, nyoo-]

noun

Psychiatry.

plural

neuroses 

1. Also called psychoneurosis. a functional disorder in which feelings of anxiety, obsessional thoughts, compulsive acts, and physical complaints without objective evidence of disease, in various degrees and patterns, dominate the personality.

2. a relatively mild personality disorder typified by excessive anxiety or indecision and a degree of social or interpersonal maladjustment.

neurosis

/ njʊˈrəʊsɪs /

noun

1. Also called: psychoneurosis. a relatively mild mental disorder, characterized by symptoms such as hysteria, anxiety, depression, or obsessive behaviour

neurosis

1. A psychological state characterized by excessive anxiety or insecurity without evidence of neurologic or other organic disease, sometimes accompanied by defensive or immature behaviors. This term is no longer used in psychiatric diagnosis.

neurosis

1. A mental disorder marked by anxiety or fear. Neurosis is less severe than psychosis. (See also angst, hysteria, and phobia.)

In popular usage, a “neurotic” is anyone who worries a lot.

Word History and Origins

Origin of neurosis¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1770–80; neur-, -osis

Example Sentences

We are seeing more evidence of the president’s perpetual election neurosis in the run-up to the 2026 midterms.

From Salon

He starts off as a real guy with neuroses and problems and foibles.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s not exactly unconventional for one of his movies, but more than any of his other features, this film is laced with Aster’s neuroses.

From Salon

She understands there is a formula to our narcissism and neuroses; patterns and mathematical sets of criteria drive our decisions.

From Salon

Instead of one central couple, there are two, each with their own neuroses and ways of relating to one another.

From Salon

Related Words

• inhibition