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Skittish: meaning, definitions and examples

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skittish

 

[ ˈskɪtɪʃ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

nervous behavior

Skittish describes someone who is easily frightened or excitable. This term is often used to describe animals, especially horses, that are easily startled or jumpy. In human contexts, it can refer to people who are unpredictable or prone to anxiety. It emphasizes a sense of caution and wariness in behavior, often leading to quick movements or changes in attitude.

Synonyms

fidgety, jumping, nervous, restless, unsettled

Examples of usage

  • The skittish horse bucked when it heard a loud noise.
  • Her skittish nature made it difficult for her to stay in one place for long.
  • He became skittish at the idea of public speaking.

Translations

Translations of the word "skittish" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nervoso

🇮🇳 चंचल

🇩🇪 scheu

🇮🇩 gelisah

🇺🇦 неспокійний

🇵🇱 płochliwy

🇯🇵 神経質な

🇫🇷 craintif

🇪🇸 nervioso

🇹🇷 ürkek

🇰🇷 소심한

🇸🇦 خجول

🇨🇿 plachý

🇸🇰 plachý

🇨🇳 害羞的

🇸🇮 plašen

🇮🇸 taugaveikur

🇰🇿 қорқақ

🇬🇪 დაუზარებელი

🇦🇿 çəkinən

🇲🇽 nervioso

Word origin

The word 'skittish' originates from the late 16th century, likely derived from the Middle English 'skit', which means to leap or spring, suggesting a sense of sudden movement. Over time, the term evolved to describe not just physical movement but also a psychological state characterized by nervousness or cautiousness. The word was likely influenced by the Old Norse word 'skota', meaning to shoot or dart, reflecting the idea of quick, sudden movements in response to fear or anxiety. As usage spread, 'skittish' came to capture the essence of being easily startled or excitable, and it has been applied to both animals and humans to express a lack of composure.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,483 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.