adjective

worried

Feeling anxious about a possible problem.

She looks worried as she waits for the test results.

Etymology

Worry shifted from physical choking or harassment to mental distress. Worried names the anxious state produced by persistent troubling thoughts.

More examples

  • I'm worried about paying rent this month.
  • He's worried that his dog might be sick.
  • The worried parents call the school when the bus is late.

Forms

worried · more worried · most worried

worry verb — To feel anxious about possible problems.

Similar words

anxious
Often suggests stronger nervousness and may lack a specific cause.
concerned
Often suggests a calmer awareness of a possible problem.
uneasy
Suggests vague discomfort rather than worry about a clear problem.