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.

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

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

It was an assured display from Renee Slegers' side as they defended bravely, were ruthless in the moments that mattered and held their nerve to progress.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

"It showed that sildenafil, among other drugs, improved the electrical functionality of the nerve cells."

From Science Daily • Mar. 31, 2026

Extremely risky orbital reconstruction surgery was a possibility, along with a donor nerve, or a full donor eye.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

This horned toad was really getting on his last nerve.

From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young

nerve

Example Sentences

Related Words