Jumpy

Jumpy describes a state of nervous excitement or anxiety, often accompanied by a tendency to start or react suddenly to unexpected stimuli. It can refer to physical behavior, like being easily startled or fidgety, or to an emotional state, such as feeling apprehensive or on edge. The feeling can range from mild unease to outright terror. This feeling can stem from various sources, like a lack of confidence, fear of the unknown, or heightened awareness of potential danger. The word evokes a sense of instability and unpredictability, making it apt for describing both people and situations.

Jumpy meaning with examples

• The new horror film had a jumpy atmosphere, making the audience tense and on the edge of their seats. Every creak of the old house made her jumpy, anticipating something frightening to pop out at her. The sudden loud noises amplified her jumpiness. The movie really got under her skin with its clever use of suspense and the way it ramped up her nerves, creating a jumpy viewing experience.
• After the accident, Sarah was understandably jumpy. She flinched at every siren and sudden movement. Her therapist helped her to work through the trauma and calm her anxiety over time, allowing her to regain her sense of security and allowing her to be less jumpy. The incident left her emotionally vulnerable and hyperaware of her surroundings, making her jumpy in crowds.
• The puppy was jumpy, startled by every rustle of leaves or the shadow that passed it. The sudden bark of another dog made the puppy jumpy. Everything new overwhelmed it. Over time, the puppy learned to be less jumpy as he got used to his new family and new home environment. This early jumpiness suggests it will need patient training and exposure to various situations for it to thrive.
• The negotiator was jumpy as the deadline approached. Her pulse quickened, and she felt a strong sense of uneasiness. Any unexpected phone calls, unexpected emails, or late nights made her jumpy. She was aware of the possibility of the deal going south. Every unanswered question was a source of jumpiness. The pressure was getting to her!