The phrase "was pins and needles" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /wʌz pɪnz ənd ˈnɛdəlz/. The word "pins" is spelled with the consonants /p/ and /n/, followed by a short vowel sound represented by the letter "i". The word "needles" is spelled with the consonants /n/, /d/, and /l/ followed by a short vowel sound and the letter "s". The phrase means a feeling of discomfort or nervousness, often due to anticipation or anxiety.
The phrase "was pins and needles" is an idiomatic expression derived from the literal sensation of pins and needles, which is a tingling or prickling sensation in a limb after it has been numb or compressed for some time. In an idiomatic sense, when someone says they "were pins and needles," it means that they were experiencing an intense feeling of nervousness, anxiety, anticipation, or excitement.
This phrase is often used to describe a state of extreme tension or anticipation that someone feels, commonly associated with awaiting an important event, such as a job interview, exam results, a date, or a performance. The person might exhibit physical signs of restlessness or fidgeting, as well as emotional signs such as racing thoughts or an increased heart rate. The feeling is often characterized by a heightened level of anticipation, as if one is walking on thin needles or pins.
The phrase "was pins and needles" conveys the idea that the individual is so consumed by the situation or event that their mental and emotional state resembles the tingling sensation of pins and needles. It is important to note that this expression is not to be taken literally, as there are no actual pins or needles involved, but rather symbolizes the intensity of the feelings being experienced.