Pronunciation

/ˈnɜːrv/

Definitions

Noun (n)

1. Anatomy: A long, thin fiber that transmits signals between different parts of the body, especially as part of the nervous system. Example: “The doctor tested her reflexes by tapping on a nerve in her leg.”
2. Metaphorical sense: Courage, strength of mind, or emotional resilience needed to face difficulty or danger. Example: “It takes a lot of nerve to stand up and speak in front of a large audience.”
3. Figurative usage: Tendency to irritate or offend; a sensitive topic or issue. Example: “Talking about his past failures really hits a nerve with him.”
4. Botany: A strand-like structure in plants that conducts water and nutrients.

Verb (v)

(Informal) To annoy or irritate someone deliberately. Example: “Her constant interruptions really nerve me.”

Phrases

• “Get on someone’s nerves”: To irritate or annoy someone repeatedly. Example: “His constant humming is getting on my nerves.”
• “Have the nerve (to do something)”: To have the audacity or courage to do something, often implying it’s impudent or bold. Example: “I can’t believe he had the nerve to ask for a raise after such poor performance.”

Example Sentences

• Noun (anatomy): “The surgeon carefully severed the damaged nerve during the operation.”
• Noun (metaphorical): “She showed incredible nerve in dealing with the crisis.”
• Verb: “Don’t nerve me like that when I’m trying to concentrate!”

Synonyms

• (For the anatomical sense) Neuron, fibers
• (For the metaphorical sense) Backbone, bravery, pluck, guts
• (For the informal verb usage) Annoy, irritate, rile up

Please note that the verb form of “nerve” is less commonly used than its noun form, and its meaning leans towards informal usage, referring to irritating someone deliberately. The more common meanings associated with “nerve” are primarily noun-based, describing physical nerves in the body or figurative senses related to courage and sensitivity.