adjective
apprehensive
ap-rih-HEN-siv/ˌæprɪˈhensɪv/
Anxious or uneasy about something that may happen.
The apprehensive man grips his chair while watching the prepared syringe.
Etymology
To grasp something could mean to grasp it with the mind. From being capable of mental perception, apprehensive shifted to anticipating something with dread, hence feeling worried about what may happen.
In context
You seem to be apprehensive of your own safety. Why?" "Italians are a very curious people," I responded quickly. "Their vendetta extends widely sometimes."
More examples
- He was apprehensive about speaking before the crowd.
- Their apprehensive glances showed how uncertain they felt.
- I became more apprehensive after hearing the weather forecast.
Forms
apprehensive · more apprehensive · most apprehensive
Similar words
- anxious
- Can also mean eager, unlike apprehensive in ordinary use.
- fearful
- Often suggests stronger fear rather than uneasy anticipation.