antsy

adjective

ant·​sy ˈant-sē 

1

informal : restless, fidgety

antsy children

also : impatient, eager

antsy for a new challenge

2

informal : nervous, apprehensive

antsy investors

Synonyms of antsy

• worried
• anxious
• nervous
• upset
• uneasy
• apprehensive
• troubled

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

Even before the Iran war sent inflation soaring, traders were antsy about an economy with a 260% debt-to-GDP ratio hitting the fiscal gas. —William Pesek, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026

There was no easing in or getting antsy. —Greg O'Keeffe, New York Times, 16 May 2026

When a successful law-graduate cousin announces a plan to open a high-end restaurant in town, Azik’s loftiest dreams are reawakened — but one look at him, with his cauliflower ear and his antsy demeanor, is enough to tell you Azik is not someone for whom dreams readily come true. —Guy Lodge, Variety, 13 May 2026

Residents who enjoy the convenience of the store’s proximity to the Edens Expressway and neighboring local communities have grown antsy for a new retailer. —Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 11 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

see ant entry 1

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

antsy

adjective

ant·​sy ˈant-sē 

informal

: restless sense 3, impatient