nerve

nerve · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (anatomy) A bundle of fibers that transmits impulses of sensation between the brain or spinal cord and other parts of the body.

  2. 2.

    Courage, boldness, or audacity, especially in a difficult situation.

  3. 3.

    (informal) Impudence or audacity in an impolite sense.

Forms

plural: nerves

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    get on someone's nerves — to irritate or annoy someone
  • •
    hit a nerve — to touch on a sensitive subject
  • •
    nerve-racking — extremely stressful or anxiety-inducing
  • •
    bundle of nerves — a very nervous or anxious person
  • •
    lose one's nerve — to become too frightened to do something
  • •
    steel one's nerves — to prepare oneself mentally for something difficult

Related words

Antonyms: cowardice, timidity
See also: brain, courage, nerves, nervous
Synonyms: audacity, boldness, courage

Etymology

From Latin nervus ("sinew, tendon, nerve"), related to Greek neuron ("nerve, sinew"). The figurative sense of "courage" developed from the idea that nerves control one's steadiness and composure.