English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word nerve in English

What does nerve mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

nerve

US /nɝːv/
UK /nɝːv/
"nerve" picture

Noun

1.

a fiber or bundle of fibers in the body that transmits impulses of sensation and motion between the brain or spinal cord and all other parts of the body

Example:
•
The doctor tested his reflexes to check his nerves.
•
Damage to the optic nerve can cause vision loss.
Synonym:
axonfiberganglion
2.

courage or confidence

Example:
•
It took a lot of nerve to speak in front of such a large audience.
•
He had the nerve to ask for a raise after being late all week.
Synonym:
couragebraveryboldnessdaringaudacitychutzpahgallimpudenceeffronterytemerity
3.

a feeling of worry or anxiety

Example:
•
She suffered from a bad case of nerves before her performance.
•
The waiting period gave him the nerves.
Synonym:
anxietyapprehensionuneasetensionstressjitterstrepidationagitationfrightfear

Verb

1.

to give courage or confidence to (someone)

Example:
•
The coach's words nerved the team before the big game.
•
He nerved himself to face the challenge.
Synonym:
emboldenencouragestrengthenfortifybrace
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Related Word:
nerve agentnerve gasnerve cellcranial nervespinal nervesensory nervemotor nerve