Synonyms of nail-biters

nail-biters

noun

plural of nail-biter

as in thrillers

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

• thrillers
• cliff-hangers
• hair-raisers
• suspensers
• squeakers
• photo finishes

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• blowouts
• yawners

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of nail-biters

Although there have been hundreds of close calls and nail-biters, there have been some comebacks that feel like a movie come to life. — Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 11 June 2026

The Avs, who won the President’s Trophy with the league’s best regular-season record, opened the playoffs with a pair of 2-1 nail-biters over the Kings. — ABC News, 4 May 2026

The Music Box continues its series celebrating nail-biters centered on prison breaks. — Jennifer Day, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

There's been thrillers, nail-biters, and a couple of upsets in the men's tournament. — Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 20 Mar. 2026

Frank Micelotta / Disney The race for best actor was one of the night’s true nail-biters. — Rebecca Keegan, NBC news, 16 Mar. 2026

But winning fewer than 40% of those nail-biters is the stuff that can become a habit. — Troy Renck, Denver Post, 16 Mar. 2026

Even long-term nail-biters, or those whose nails are prone to breakage, tend to have success with growth. — Tori Crowther, Refinery29, 29 Jan. 2026

For the gym-goers and habitual nail-biters in your life, this is an essential gift. — The Editors, Outside, 14 Nov. 2025