nerve

[nurv] / nɜrv /

NOUN

daring, boldness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confidence courage determination fortitude grit heart spirit stomach

STRONG

assumption assurance audacity backbone brass bravery brazenness cheek chutzpah coolness crust effrontery endurance energy face fearlessness firmness force gall gameness guts hardihood hardiness impertinence impudence insolence intrepidity mettle might moxie pluck presumption resolution sauce spunk starch steadfastness temerity vigor will

WEAK

intestinal fortitude

Antonyms

STRONGEST

cowardice doubt fear timidity weakness

STRONG

care carefulness caution humility idleness inactivity lethargy manners meekness modesty politeness powerlessness reality shyness uncertainty

VERB

strengthen, hearten

Synonyms

STRONG

animate brace cheer embolden encourage fortify inspirit invigorate steel

WEAK

enhearten

Antonyms

STRONG

depress discourage dishearten dissuade weaken

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The team found that oligodendrocytes, which normally protect nerve fibers, can change their behavior and begin supporting tumor growth.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

Paul, 28, held his nerve in a nail-biting third set to dig out a 6-1, 3-6, 7-5 triumph in 2hr 40min to claim the fifth ATP title of his career.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

The study reveals that some brain cells, previously believed to only support normal nerve function, can actually assist glioblastoma in growing and spreading.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

But Van Veen held his nerve and hit double six for the match.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

“He had the nerve to ask me to sell awhile back.”

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson

nerve

Example Sentences

Related Words