The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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skittish

adjective

/ˈskɪtɪʃ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of skittish

Easily startled, nervous, or prone to sudden and unpredictable movements or reactions.
"The skittish investor was ready to sell his stock at the first sign of trouble."

Detailed meaning of skittish

A skittish person or animal may be easily startled by sudden movements or loud noises, and may exhibit a tendency to flee or run away in response to perceived threats. The term can also be used to describe someone who is unpredictable or unreliable in their behavior, particularly in social situations. A skittish person may be hesitant to commit to plans or make decisions, and may exhibit a tendency to change their mind or back out of commitments at the last minute. In general, the term 'skittish' is used to describe someone or something that is easily unnerved or unsettled, and may require careful handling or management in order to prevent negative outcomes.

Example sentences containing skittish

1. The skittish horse was easily spooked by loud noises.
2. The new puppy was quite skittish around strangers.
3. The stock market has been skittish due to ongoing economic uncertainties.
4. The cat's skittish behavior made it difficult to approach.
5. The actor was feeling skittish before his stage performance.
6. The hiker felt a bit skittish when she heard rustling in the bushes.

History and etymology of skittish

The adjective 'skittish' has its roots in the Middle English word 'skit,' which means 'to move quickly' or 'to dart.' It is closely related to the Old Norse word 'skjota,' which also means 'to shoot' or 'to dart.' Over time, 'skittish' came to describe something or someone that is easily startled, nervous, or prone to sudden and unpredictable movements or reactions. Its etymology aptly captures the essence of this term, emphasizing the idea of quick, darting movements and a tendency to react impulsively to stimuli, much like a startled horse might shy away or dart unpredictably when alarmed. 'Skittish' effectively conveys a sense of unpredictability and unease associated with such behaviors.

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Further usage examples of skittish

1. The skittish deer darted away as soon as it sensed human presence.
2. Her skittish nature made her hesitant to try new things.
3. The skittish child clung to their parent in the unfamiliar environment.
4. The car's skittish handling on wet roads required extra caution.
5. The cat's skittishness increased during thunderstorms.
6. The employee's skittish attitude suggested that they were hiding something.
7. The athlete felt skittish before the championship game.
8. The skittish rabbit froze when it saw movement nearby.
9. The market's skittish response to the news indicated investor unease.
10. The skittish fawn cautiously approached the watering hole.
11. His skittish reaction to confrontation hinted at past trauma.
12. The skittish student hesitated to ask a question in front of the class.
13. The dog's skittish behavior was a result of mistreatment in the past.
14. The skittish driver slammed on the brakes at the slightest hint of danger.