anxious
anxious
anx·ious
/ˈæŋkʃəs/ adj [more ~; most ~]
1 a : afraid or nervous especially about what may happen : feeling anxiety
She feels anxious and depressed.
They are anxious [=worried, concerned] about their son's health.
People are anxious about the future.
They were anxious for their daughter. [=they were worried about what might happen to their daughter]
He was anxious that the weather would not improve in time for the party.
1 b : causing or showing fear or nervousness
We experienced a few anxious moments as we waited to hear the results of the test.
It was an anxious night as she waited for her children to come home.
an anxious moment
He was waiting at the door with an anxious expression/look on his face.
2 : wanting or eager to do or have something very much especially because of fear or nervousness
He was anxious for more news.
— often followed by to + verb
She was anxious to succeed in school.
It was snowing hard and we were anxious to get home.
We were anxious to hear the results.
anx·ious·ly adv
Her parents waited anxiously for her to come home that night.
anx·ious·ness noun [ noncount ]
feelings of anxiousness [=(more commonly) anxiety]
