Jittery – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Jittery (adjective)

Jittery is an adjective that describes someone extremely nervous, anxious, or uneasy. It often implies a sense of restlessness or lack of calmness, characterised by frequent small, quick movements or emotional instability.

Examples

• She felt jittery before her big presentation.
• His jittery hands spilt coffee on the table.
• The jittery driver kept checking his rearview mirror.
• Her jittery energy made everyone else uneasy.
• The stock market remained jittery after the announcement.
• He grew jittery waiting for the test results.
• The cat became jittery during the thunderstorm.
• Their jittery behaviour raised suspicions among the guards.

Meaning

• Nervous
• Uneasy
• Anxious

Pronunciation

• UK: /ˈdʒɪtəri/ (JIT-uh-ree)
• US: /ˈdʒɪtəri/ (JIT-er-ee)

Synonyms

• Nervous
• Anxious
• Uneasy
• Restless
• Skittish
• Fidgety
• Tense
• Edgy
• Agitated
• Shaky
• On edge
• Frazzled

Usage Tips for Jittery

• Use to describe feelings of nervousness or tension.
• It is often associated with physical symptoms like trembling or fidgeting.
• It is commonly used in stressful, uncertain, or high-pressure contexts.
• Avoid overusing in calm or relaxed situations.

Origin

Jittery (20th century):

It is likely derived from jitter, which means to tremble or shake.

Similar Words to Jittery

• Nervous
• Anxious
• Uneasy
• Restless
• Tense
• Skittish
• Fidgety
• Edgy
• Agitated
• Shaky

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of jittery in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, jittery means بے چین یا پریشان.

Q: How do we use jittery in a sentence?

Ans: She felt jittery as the exam date approached, unable to focus on her studies.

Q: What’s the difference between jittery and nervous?

Ans: Nervous describes general unease or worry, while jittery implies restlessness, trembling, or an inability to remain calm.

Related Words: