Synonyms of nail-biter

nail-biter

noun

ˈnāl-ˌbī-tər 

as in thriller

something (as a close contest) that induces much suspense as to its outcome

a presidential election that was one of the great nail-biters of all time

Synonyms & Similar Words

• thriller
• suspenser
• cliff-hanger
• hair-raiser
• squeaker
• photo finish

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• blowout
• yawner

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of nail-biter

It’s been a bit of a nail-biter as both sides awaited her final sign-off. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2026

His 3-yard touchdown reception with 13 seconds left brought relief to Sandburg, which slipped past Lincoln-Way Central 21-17 in a SouthWest Suburban Conference nail-biter in Orland Park. — Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 26 Sep. 2026

Tucker, Max Muncy, Mookie Betts and Will Smith all homered in a five-run eighth inning, turning a nail-biter into a comfortable win. — Los Angeles Times, 19 Sep. 2026

But the race has not turned into the nail-biter most anticipated, and Democrats outside Georgia are taking notice – at a time when the party is debating how to escape the political wilderness and win back a majority in Congress. — Sam Gringlas, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026