nervous or easily frightened, and likely to run away or avoid unfamiliar situations, changing suddenly and often

Formal and Informal Expressions of skittish

In different contexts, you can replace 'skittish' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'nervous, jittery' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'jumpy, spooked' is a commonplace synonym.

skittish: Explore its Definition & Usage

skittish Definition

1nervous or easily frightened, and likely to run away or avoid unfamiliar situations
2changing suddenly and often

Using skittish: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "skittish" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The skittish horse refused to cross the bridge.
Example
She's always been skittish around strangers.
Example
The stock market can be skittish in times of uncertainty.
Example
The cat was too skittish to come out from under the bed.

skittish Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for skittish

Antonyms for skittish

Phrases with skittish

skittish as a colt
extremely nervous or jumpy
Example
The new employee was skittish as a colt during his first presentation.
skittish about something
nervous or hesitant about something
Example
She's always been skittish about public speaking.
skittish market
a market that is unpredictable and prone to sudden changes
Example
Investors are wary of the skittish market and are holding onto their assets.

Origins of skittish

from 'skit-', meaning 'move quickly', and '-ish', meaning 'somewhat'

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Summary: skittish in Brief

The term 'skittish' [ˈskɪtɪʃ] describes someone or something that is nervous, easily frightened, and likely to avoid unfamiliar situations. It can also refer to something that changes suddenly and often, such as a skittish market. Examples include 'The skittish horse refused to cross the bridge' and 'She's always been skittish around strangers.' Phrases like 'skittish as a colt' and 'skittish about something' further illustrate this sense of nervousness.