trepidation

[ trep-i-dey-shuhn ]

noun

1. tremulous fear, alarm, or agitation; perturbation.

   Synonyms: disquiet, apprehension, panic, alarm, fright, fear, dread, anxiety

2. Archaic. trembling or quivering movement; tremor.

trepidation

/ ˌtrɛpɪˈdeɪʃən /

noun

1. a state of fear or anxiety
2. a condition of quaking or palpitation, esp one caused by anxiety

Other Words From

• trep·i·da·tious adjective
• trep·i·da·tious·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of trepidation¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin trepidātiōn- (stem of trepidātiō ), equivalent to trepidāt(us) (past participle of trepidāre “to hurry, panic, alarm” + -iōn- noun suffix; trepid, -ate ¹, -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of trepidation¹

C17: from Latin trepidātiō , from trepidāre to be in a state of alarm; compare intrepid

Example Sentences

Still, Redmayne says he had a “level of trepidation” when the first three scripts landed in his inbox.

From Los Angeles Times

He broached the subject when saying he felt no trepidation about working with Ridley Scott on the upcoming “Gladiator II” film.

From Los Angeles Times

California voters are also facing what comes after election day with some trepidation.

From Los Angeles Times

Their alluring compositions sonically resemble the wonder of discovery with a hint of trepidation at the unknown.

From Los Angeles Times

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of trade group UK Hospitality, said businesses would be approaching the Budget with "even more trepidation" following the announcement of minimum wage increases.

From BBC

Related Words

• alarm
• apprehension
• consternation
• dismay
• disquiet
• dread
• excitement
• fright
• horror
• jitters
• nervousness
• panic
• terror
• uneasiness