nerve

US /nɝːv/
UK /nɝːv/
"nerve" picture
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

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

courage or confidence

:
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.
3.

a feeling of worry or anxiety

:
She suffered from a bad case of nerves before her performance.
The waiting period gave him the nerves.
1.

to give courage or confidence to (someone)

:
The coach's words nerved the team before the big game.
He nerved himself to face the challenge.