Nervousness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'nervous' comes from the Latin term 'nervosus,' meaning 'sinewy' or 'tough', originally referring to the nerves in the body.
• In the early 1800s, 'nervous' began to be used to describe emotional states in English, indicating a connection between physical and mental sensations.

Psychology

• Nervousness can trigger the body's 'fight or flight' response, releasing adrenaline which heightens awareness but can also cause anxiety.
• People with social anxiety disorder often experience intense nervousness in social situations, which can impact daily life.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one way to help manage excessive nervousness, focusing on changing negative thought patterns.

Pop Culture

• In movies, nervous characters often fidget, sweat, or stumble over their words, dramatically showing their inner turmoil.
• Nervousness is a common theme in stand-up comedy, where comedians often share personal stories of their own anxious moments before performing.

Science

• Research shows that practice and familiarity can reduce nervousness, as the brain strengthens pathways that lessen anxiety over time.
• Studies have found that deep breathing techniques can help calm the physical symptoms associated with nervousness, slowing heart rate.

Literature

• Nervousness often appears in literature to portray a character's vulnerability, enhancing their depth and relatability.
• Many classic stories detail a 'nervous villain' trope, where the antagonist's anxiety leads to their downfall due to overthinking their plans.

With rank #15,294, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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