anxiety

[ang-zahy-i-tee] / æŋˈzaɪ ɪ ti /

NOUN

worry, tension

Synonyms

STRONGEST

angst apprehension concern disquiet doubt dread jitters misery misgiving mistrust nervousness panic restlessness suffering suspense trouble uncertainty unease uneasiness

STRONG

botheration butterflies care creeps disquietude distress downer drag fidgets flap foreboding fretfulness fuss heebie-jeebies jumps needles shakes shivers solicitude sweat watchfulness willies worriment

WEAK

all-overs ants in pants cold sweat goose bumps nail-biting pins and needles

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advantage belief blessing calm calmness certainty collectedness confidence contentment ease faith happiness joy peace security sureness trust

STRONG

peacefulness

WEAK

assurance composure nonchalance tranquility

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.

Here are a few strategies for keeping anticipatory anxiety at bay.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Understanding the role of astrocytes could reshape how scientists approach disorders linked to persistent fear, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorders and phobias.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

Try to understand what’s at the root of their anxiety.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

"Hearing how our game has helped our players with their anxiety and mental health has been really rewarding to us," said Harper.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

I was sent home with a referral to see a therapist so I could learn how to manage my anxiety and identify my triggers or whatever.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

anxiety

Example Sentences

Related Words