antsy

adjective

ant·​sy ˈant-sē How to pronounce antsy (audio)
Synonyms of antsynext
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.
Financing costs make folks antsy. Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 11 Mar. 2026 Investors, who have unthinkable sums riding on the AI boom, are antsy for signs that the technology is boosting productivity. Lila Shroff, The Atlantic, 10 Mar. 2026 The dish, created by food influencer Esther Lee (@biteswithesther), hit social media feeds earlier this week and is already generating buzz from followers who are antsy to give it a try. Joseph Erbentraut, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Mar. 2026 Georgia Republicans are getting antsy. CBS News, 6 Mar. 2026 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 14 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

antsy

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