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nerve

Definition

  • noun: one of the many thin parts that control movement and feeling by carrying messages between the brain and other parts of the body
  • noun: any of the filamentous bands of 'nervous' tissue that connect parts of the nervous system with the other organs, conduct nerve impulses, and are made up of axons and dendrites together with protective and supportive structures
  • verb: to give strength or courage to
  • synonyms: sinew, coolness, pluck

Examples

  • The company and the union are engaged in a 'war of nerves', with each side threatening the other.

  • Something she said to him must have 'hit/struck/touched a nerve'. I've never seen him so angry.

  • “After making the mess, he didn't even offer to help clean it up.” “What (a) 'nerve'!”

Movie quotes

  • (..) Thanks. Are you talking about that little girl... that got murdered? I doubt it was a drug problem. It was probably a nerve problem. I could recheck the arm for injuries, but l'd have to take the body back to Portland... to do some real nerve work. (..)
    1992 Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me