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.
For the coworker who tends to get a little antsy throughout the day, a Japanese zen garden kit is a fidget toy all grown up. Jamie Fischer, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Nov. 2025 Both parties were already getting antsy last week. NBC news, 2 Nov. 2025 The legal system is getting antsy to move on. Zach Schonfeld, The Hill, 29 Oct. 2025 Alas, even best-sellers get antsy. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 26 Oct. 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 12 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

antsy

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