Definition

Easily frightened or nervous; often changing behavior or mood.

Example

The skittish horse jumped at every little sound.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you noticed how skittish the cat has been lately?

Yeah, she jumps at every little sound!

I wonder if something scared her outside.

Could be, or maybe she just feels more skittish in this weather.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Skittish originates from the Middle English 'skitish', which is derived from the verb 'skit', meaning to shy away or to startle. The word is related to the Old Norse 'skita', meaning to scatter or to throw away. Thus, 'skittish' describes a tendency to be easily startled or to shy away.

Memory Tip

Imagine a horse that easily 'shies away' or 'scatters' at sudden movements — that's why skittish means easily startled.

Visually Confused Words