Meaning & Definition of word "Skittish"
to
Skittish
/ˈskɪtɪʃ/
adjective:
- 1. easily frightened or excited; nervous or jumpy.
- Example: The skittish deer bounded away as soon as it heard a rustle in the bushes.
- 2. lively and unpredictable; capricious.
- Example: Her skittish behavior made it difficult to engage in a serious conversation.
- 3. characterized by a lack of confidence or trust.
- Example: The new employee was skittish around the seasoned staff, unsure of her place in the team.
Etymology
Middle English 'skittish', from 'skit' + '-ish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
skittishness:
the quality of being skittish.
skittish about money:
anxious or hesitant regarding financial matters.
Related Words
restive:
unable to keep still or silent, becoming increasingly difficult to control.
fidgety:
nervous and unable to relax.
Slang Meanings of skittish
Meaning: anxious or jittery
Example Sentence: After the call, I felt really skittish about the meeting.
Meaning: overly cautious or hesitant
Example Sentence: He's been skittish about dating after his last relationship.