Jitter

A state of nervous excitement or agitation; a tremble or tremor, often involuntary. It can manifest physically, emotionally, or mentally, resulting from anxiety, stress, or anticipation. This often involves physical signs like shaking or fidgeting but also encompasses feelings of unease, nervousness, and difficulty concentrating. The intensity of the jitter can range from a mild flutter to a severe panic, impacting an individual's ability to function normally. It is important to note that this word can be applied across both real and metaphorical situations.

Jitter meaning with examples

• Before the audition, Sarah felt the jitters creeping in; her hands trembled as she waited for her turn. The anxiety about potential failure caused her stomach to churn, and she struggled to focus. She constantly rehearsed her lines, attempting to quell the intense fear.
• The faulty wiring sent a jitter through the old electrical system, causing the lights to flicker erratically. The irregular power supply made it difficult to watch the TV. Technicians were quickly called to locate the source of the sudden electrical disturbances.
• When the detective presented his findings, the suspect started to get the jitters, their demeanor becoming visibly agitated. They began to sweat, pace, and stutter their replies, revealing their guilt. This physical manifestation confirmed the detective's suspicions.
• The stock market experienced considerable jitters after the announcement of the global crisis, causing investors to panic. Fear regarding their investments sent share prices into a downward spiral. The sudden financial instability had ripple effects across multiple sectors.