Meaning & Definition of word "Trepidation"

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    Trepidation

    /ˌtrɛp.ɪˈdeɪ.ʃən/

    noun:

    • 1. A feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen.
      • Example: She felt a sense of trepidation before giving her speech in front of the large audience.
    • 2. A tremulous motion; tremor.
      • Example: The ground shook with trepidation as the earthquake struck.
    • 3. A state of alarm or dread.
      • Example: His trepidation was evident when he heard the ominous news about the storm.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'trepidationem', from 'trepidare' meaning 'to tremble'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    with trepidation:

    with a feeling of fear or anxiety.

    Related Words

    trepid:

    characterized by trembling or quaking.

    intrepid:

    fearless; adventurous.

    Slang Meanings of trepidation

    Meaning: The jitters.

    Example Sentence: I had the jitters before my speech.

    Meaning: Butterflies in your stomach.

    Example Sentence: I always get butterflies before a big event.