antsy

adjective

ant·​sy ˈant-sē How to pronounce antsy (audio)
1
informal : restless, fidgety
antsy children
also : impatient, eager
antsy for a new challenge
2
informal : nervous, apprehensive
antsy investors

Examples of antsy in a Sentence

he was feeling understandably antsy about the tax audit after a few minutes in the formal restaurant, the kids got antsy
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As the second round neared its latter stages, Coen became antsy. Michael Silver, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025 Most avalanche accidents happen on the first sunny day after a storm when people get antsy and disregard red flags. Ashley Thess, Outdoor Life, 14 Mar. 2025 Yet, fans of those sorts of films might get antsy, waiting for the action to really heat up. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 9 Apr. 2025 Conversely, some business leaders are antsy that O'Connell hasn't been more aggressive in pursuing economic development projects like the fairgrounds racetrack. Nate Rau, Axios, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for antsy

Word History

Etymology

see ant entry 1

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of antsy was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antsy. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

antsy

adjective
ant·​sy ˈant-sē How to pronounce antsy (audio)
informal
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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