English Dictionary |
NERVY (nervier, nerviest)
Pronunciation (US): | ![]() | (GB): | ![]() |
IPA (US): | ![]() |
Dictionary entry overview: What does nervy mean?
• NERVY (adjective)
The adjective NERVY has 3 senses:
2. showing or requiring courage and contempt of danger
Familiarity information: NERVY used as an adjective is uncommon.
Dictionary entry details
Sense 1
Meaning:
Being in a tense state
Synonyms:
edgy; high-strung; highly strung; jittery; jumpy; nervy; overstrung; restive; uptight
Similar:
tense (in or of a state of physical or nervous tension)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Showing or requiring courage and contempt of danger
Context example:
the nervy feats of mountaineers
Similar:
bold (fearless and daring)
Derivation:
nerve (the courage to carry on)
Sense 3
Meaning:
Offensively bold
Synonyms:
Context example:
a nervy thing to say
Similar:
forward (used of temperament or behavior; lacking restraint or modesty)
Derivation:
nerve (impudent aggressiveness)
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