What does jittered mean?
Jittered is an adjective that describes a person or thing that is shaky or unsteady, often due to a lack of confidence or stability. It can be used to describe physical or emotional states, and is often used in situations where a person is feeling anxious or uncertain. The word is commonly used in informal contexts, but can also be used in formal writing or speech. Jittered is often contrasted with words that describe stability or confidence, such as stable or confident. In terms of etymology, jittered is related to the word jitter, which means to shake or tremble. The word has been in use since the mid-20th century, and has become a common descriptor in modern English.
adjectiveHaving a shaky or unsteady quality, often due to a lack of confidence or stability.
- Having a shaky or unsteady quality, often due to a lack of confidence or stability.
"The new employee's jittered hands betrayed her nervousness during the presentation."
"The new employee's jittered hands betrayed her nervousness during the presentation."
"The company's jittered financial situation made investors nervous."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of jittered
The word jittered is derived from the verb jitter, which means to shake or tremble. This verb is thought to have originated in the mid-20th century, and is likely related to the word jitterbug, which refers to a type of dance characterized by rapid, shaking movements. The adjective jittered is a natural extension of this verb, and is used to describe a person or thing that is shaky or unsteady.
How jittered is actually used
Jittered is often used to describe a person's physical or emotional state, particularly in situations where they are feeling anxious or uncertain. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but may be more commonly used in informal writing or speech.