Skittish

/ˈskɪtɪʃ/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

easily frightened or excited; nervous or jumpy.

The skittish deer bounded away as soon as it heard a rustle in the bushes.

lively and unpredictable; capricious.

Her skittish behavior made it difficult to engage in a serious conversation.

characterized by a lack of confidence or trust.

The new employee was skittish around the seasoned staff, unsure of her place in the team.

Middle English 'skittish', from 'skit' + '-ish'.

skittishness

the quality of being skittish.

skittish about money

anxious or hesitant regarding financial matters.

restive

unable to keep still or silent, becoming increasingly difficult to control.

fidgety

nervous and unable to relax.

anxious or jittery

After the call, I felt really skittish about the meeting.

overly cautious or hesitant

He's been skittish about dating after his last relationship.