Meaning & Definition
verb
To make (someone) lose courage or confidence; to unsettle.
The unexpected loud noise unnerved her during the presentation.
To deprive of nerve or courage; to disconcert.
He felt unnerved by the way the audience was staring at him.
To disturb the composure of; to agitate.
The strange events of the night unnerved him, leaving him unable to sleep.
Etymology
From the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'nerve' which refers to courage or confidence.
Common Phrases and Expressions
off one's game:
To be not performing well due to nervousness or anxiety.
on edge:
Feeling anxious or nervous.
in a tizzy:
In a state of nervous excitement or confusion.
Slang Meanings
Freaked out
She was totally freaked out after watching that horror movie.
Spooked
He got spooked when he heard the strange noise in the dark.