nervousness.

An uneasy state of tension or reduced confidence, especially before an uncertain or demanding situation.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• visible nervousness
• nervousness before an exam
• betray nervousness

On the page

Her nervousness showed in the speed of her introduction.

The panel’s friendly questions eased his nervousness.

Nobody mistook the recruit’s nervousness for unwillingness to help.

Usage notes

Primary category: fear. Often milder and more situational than anxiety; also covers a visibly excitable temperament. Does not necessarily indicate danger. Usually uncountable in this sense. Derived family (not additional inflections or records): nervous.