Apprehensive

/ˌæp.rɪˈhɛn.sɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen.

She felt apprehensive about the upcoming exam.

Having a quick understanding or perceiving something quickly.

The apprehensive student was quick to grasp the complex concepts presented in class.

From late Latin 'apprehensivus', from Latin 'apprehendere' meaning 'to seize' or 'to understand'.

feeling apprehensive

Experiencing anxiety or worry about a possible future event.

apprehensive about something

Having concerns or fears related to a specific situation.

apprehension

A feeling of anxiety or fear that something bad will happen.

apprehend

To understand or perceive; to arrest or seize.

Butterflies in the stomach

I had butterflies in my stomach before the interview.

On edge

He was really on edge before the big presentation.