Skittish - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Skittish describes someone or something that is easily startled, nervous, or unpredictable. It often refers to animals or people who react quickly to slight changes or perceived threats.
Definition:
Easily frightened or nervous, often unpredictable in behavior.
Synonyms:
jumpy, nervous, excitable, fidgety, restless
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
calm, composed, steady
Common Collocations:
skittish horse, skittish behavior, skittish market, skittish animal
Derivatives:
skittishly, skittishness
Usage Tips:
Use "skittish" to describe someone or something easily startled or prone to sudden movements.
Common Phrases:
skittish as a cat, skittish investor, skittish temperament
Etymology:
Derived from "skite," meaning to move quickly or dart, influenced by "skit," suggesting playful unpredictability.
Examples:
- 1. The new puppy was skittish around loud noises.
- 2. She felt skittish before her big presentation.
- 3. The stock market has been unusually skittish lately.
- 4. A skittish deer bolted at the sound of footsteps.