Nerves Meaning and Definition

Nerves

Nerves

Pronunciation

/ˈnɝrvz/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A cord or bundle of fibers covered with a connective tissue sheath, forming part of the peripheral nervous system and responsible for transmitting motor or sensory signals between the central nervous system and muscles, organs, or sense organs.

Examples

  • A sharp pain shot through her nerves.
  • The doctor examined her nervous system to diagnose her condition.

Synonyms

  • Fibers
  • Tendrils

Antonyms

  • Muscle
  • Organ

Etymology

The word “nerves” comes from the Latin word “nervus,” meaning “string” or “cord,” likely due to the resemblance of nerve fibers to strings or cords.

Usage Notes

Nerves is often used to describe the feeling or sensation of nervousness, anxiety, or fear, as in “I get the nerves before a big exam.”

Cultural References

Nerves is referenced in popular culture in phrases such as “get your nerves together” and “stop being so nervous.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • “Get your nerves together”
  • “Stop being so nervous”

Related Words or Phrases

  • Nervous
  • Anxious
  • Fearful

Collocations

  • Nerve endings
  • Nerve damage
  • Nerve pain

Frequency of Use

Nerves is a commonly used word in modern language, particularly in the context of emotional responses to stress or anxiety.

Common Misspellings

  • Nervs
  • Nervus

Related Words