How Do You Spell NERVOUS?

Pronunciation: [nˈɜːvəs] (IPA)

The word "nervous" consists of two syllables: "ner" and "vous". The first syllable "ner" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɜː/, as in the word "fern". It is followed by the consonant sound /v/ and the second syllable "vous", which is pronounced with the vowel sound /ʌ/, as in the word "ostrich". The spelling of the word "nervous" accurately represents the pronunciation of the word, due to the use of various vowel and consonant sounds in its syllables.

NERVOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. Nervous is an adjective that describes a state of being anxious, worried, or agitated. It is a term used to depict a condition of unease or apprehension, often associated with feelings of fear, uncertainty, or tension. When someone is described as "nervous," it usually means they are experiencing heightened sensitivity or easily affected by external factors, such as stressful situations or anticipation of potential harm.

    In the realm of mental health, nervousness can refer to symptoms of an anxiety disorder, where an individual may frequently feel unable to relax, experience excessive worrying, or suffer from various physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, sweating, or a sense of impending doom. These symptoms may be triggered by specific phobias, social situations, or generalized anxiety, among other causes.

    Additionally, the term can also be used to describe a temporary state of anxiety or apprehension experienced before an important event such as a job interview, public speaking engagement, or an exam. In this context, nervousness is often considered a natural response to unfamiliar or challenging situations, and it can motivate individuals to prepare and perform better.

    Overall, nervousness encompasses a broad spectrum of emotions and physical sensations, highlighting the complex interplay between mental and physiological responses to stress, while also acknowledging the influence of context and personal temperament.

  2. Relating to the nerves; having the nerves affected; easily agitated; marked by strength in sentiment or style, as a writer; in bot., full of nerves; having the nerves prominently developed.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for NERVOUS *

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Other Common Misspellings for NERVOUS

Etymology of NERVOUS

The word "nervous" originated from the Latin word "nervosus", which means "sinewy" or "full of nerves". It is derived from the Latin word "nervus", meaning "nerve". The English term was first recorded in the late 16th century and initially referred to someone suffering from a disorder affecting their nerves. Over time, the meaning expanded to include a general feeling of anxiety or unease.

Idioms with the word NERVOUS

  • (nervous) breakdown The idiom "(nervous) breakdown" refers to a state of extreme mental or emotional distress, often characterized by an inability to function normally due to high levels of stress, anxiety, or other overwhelming factors. It signifies a person's deteriorating mental health, causing a temporary disruption in their ability to cope with daily life tasks and responsibilities.
  • be nervous of (one's) (own) shadow The idiom "be nervous of (one's) (own) shadow" means to be extremely fearful, jumpy, or easily frightened by even the slightest things or situations. It implies that a person is overly timid or lacking confidence, as if they are afraid of their own shadow.
  • be frightened/nervous/scared of your own shadow To be extremely afraid or skittish, often over minor or insignificant things.

Similar spelling words for NERVOUS

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