Simple Definition of neurosis

from our Learner's Dictionary

neurosis

noun

nʊˈroʊsəs How to pronounce neurosis (audio)
British njʊˈrəʊsəs
plural neuroses -ˌsiːz How to pronounce neurosis (audio)
medical : an emotional illness in which a person experiences strong feelings of fear or worry
The patient is clearly suffering from (a) neurosis.

Cite this Entry

“Neurosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/neurosis. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster