nervous wreck

Idioms and Phrases

An individual suffering from extreme agitation or worry, as in Pat was a nervous wreck until her mother arrived at the wedding . This expression is nearly always used hyperbolically. [ Colloquial ; c. 1900] Also see basket case .

Example Sentences

Back then, and even now, the assumption is that any 20-year-old rookie entering the major leagues, especially one who didn’t speak English, would be quiet, a bit intimidated, often a nervous wreck.

From Los Angeles Times

Speaking after the hearing, the woman said she was left a "nervous wreck" after Mr Davies' "horrendous" conduct.

From BBC

The 66-year-old said losing her home had left her feeling like a "nervous wreck".

From BBC

She said during that time she felt like a "nervous wreck", not knowing where she would live.

From BBC

“I knew I was going to be a nervous wreck. I knew it was going to be tough.”

From Seattle Times