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nerve

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A nerve is any of the bundles of fibers that send sensory information through the central nervous system in different areas of the body to the brain. (noun)

An example of a nerve is what tells your brain you're in pain when you stub your toe on a rock.

Nerve is courage or strength. (noun)

An example of nerve is someone being willing to talk about their recent divorce.
An example of nerve is a student standing up to the school bully.

See nerve in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a sinew or tendon: now only in the phr. , to try as hard as possible
any of the cordlike fibers or bundles of fibers connecting the body organs with the central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord) and parts of the nervous system with each other, and carrying impulses to and from the brain or a nerve center
the pulp of a tooth, including the nerves, blood vessels, etc.
emotional control; coolness in danger; courage: a man of nerve
strength; energy; vigor
the nervous system regarded as indicating health, emotional stability, endurance, etc.
1. nervousness
2. an attack of this; hysteria
Informal impudent boldness; audacity; brazenness
Biol. a rib or vein in a leaf or insect's wing

transitive verb nerved, nerving

to give strength or courage to

See nerve in American Heritage Dictionary 4

(nûrv)

noun

Any of the cordlike bundles of fibers made up of neurons through which sensory stimuli and motor impulses pass between the brain or other parts of the central nervous system and the eyes, glands, muscles, and other parts of the body. Nerves form a network of pathways for conducting information throughout the body.
The sensitive tissue in the pulp of a tooth.
A sore point or sensitive subject: The criticism touched a nerve.
a. Courage and control under pressure: lost his nerve at the last minute.
b. Fortitude; stamina.
c. Forceful quality; boldness.
d. Brazen boldness; effrontery: had the nerve to deny it.
nerves Nervous agitation caused by fear, anxiety, or stress: an attack of nerves.
A vein or rib in the wing of an insect.
The midrib and larger veins in a leaf.

transitive verb nerved nerved, nerv·ing, Nerves nerves

To give strength or courage to.

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