What does worry mean?
Worry is both a verb and a noun for the uneasy feeling that something may go wrong. As a verb, it can mean feeling anxious, causing someone concern, or repeatedly dwelling on a difficulty. As a noun, it names that anxiety, an individual source of concern, or the act of fretting. The word often appears in everyday conversation, where “don't worry” conveys reassurance and “what worries me” identifies a personal apprehension. Its connotations range from mild unease to persistent fear or distress, so context determines its strength. In formal writing, “be concerned about” can sound more measured when describing a practical issue. British and American usage are broadly the same. Because worry links physical unease with anxious thought, it captures both an emotion and the mental process that can sustain it. It is therefore useful for discussing not only what people fear, but also how worry can prolong a concern.
To feel anxious or distressed; to cause someone concern; or to fret repeatedly about something.
"She began to worry when the train failed to arrive."
The transitive use, as in “The decision worries me,” means to cause anxiety or concern.
An anxious or troubled feeling, a source of concern, or the act of fretting about something.
"Money was never her main worry."
Plural forms such as “worries” can refer to several specific concerns or to a general sense of anxiety.
Used for individual concerns or for anxiety and troubled thoughts in general.
"Her worries about the exam kept her awake all night."
Worry once meant to torment or choke; over time, it came to name the anxiety that can choke a person's thoughts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does worry come from?
The word developed from Old English wyrgan, meaning “to vex or irritate,” and appeared in Middle English in contexts of torment or distress. Its Germanic ancestor is commonly connected with a root associated with choking or strangling, which helps explain older physical senses before the meaning shifted toward mental anxiety. Related forms such as wring and writhe reflect the same broader root of turning or twisting, while German würgen retains the sense of choking.
Related word forms
How worry is actually used
Worry is common in everyday spoken English in Britain and the United States. In formal writing, “be concerned about” may be preferable when describing a practical issue, while “worry” remains apt for personal anxiety or emotional distress.
Easily confused with worry
Worry describes anxiety or troubled thought, whereas wary describes cautious attention to possible danger.
Worry is associated with anxiety and concern, whereas weary means tired or exhausted.