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trepidation Definition

trepi·da·tion (trep′ə dās̸hən)

noun

  1. tremulous or trembling movement; quaking; tremor
  2. fearful uncertainty, anxiety, etc.; apprehension

Etymology: L trepidatio < trepidatus, pp. of trepidare, to tremble < trepidus, disturbed, alarmed < IE *trep-, to trip, tramp (< base *ter-, to tremble) > OE thrafian, to press

trepidation Synonyms

trepidation

n.

  1. Quaking

    tremor, quivering, shaking, agitation, panic.

  2. Dread

    shock, alarm, terror; see fear 1, 2.

trepidation Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • feel: The film version is such a classic, did you feel any trepidation?
  • have: Did the comedian have any trepidation about taking such a step?
  • cause: Job Application Forms are quite often complex and can cause trepidation.
  • mix: We just looked at each other - relief and trepidation mixed for Babes in the Wood.
  • express: In many ways, the trepidation expressed by many Western policy-makers is understandable.
  • increase: Now the way forward is being slowed by increasing trepidation on the part of regulators.

Adjective modifier

  • considerable: I took on the role with considerable trepidation for a variety of reasons.
  • initial: Any initial trepidation you may have had about your ability to inspire a class will have been banished.
  • little: Reading through the various messages I begin to feel a little trepidation at the possibility of getting a job in the UK.
  • great: Yet even back then, behind the smiles, was great trepidation.
  • much: There was much trepidation in the days leading up to the 30th June - why?
  • slight: So it was with slight trepidation I boarded the train in Cardiff on Saturday morning.

Preposition: on

  • part: Now the way forward is being slowed by increasing trepidation on the part of regulators.

Preposition: in

  • measure: I look forward to beginning this study with excitement and trepidation in equal measure.

Preposition: by

  • teacher: There was some trepidation by the teachers that mayhem would ensue but thankfully the children conducted themselves immaculately.
trepidation Quotes

Cultured people practise self-examination with trepidation and fear.

—I Ching   c.2000

Browse dictionary entries near trepidation

  1. trephine
  2. trepang
  3. trepan
  4. Trenton
  5. Trento
  6. Trentino-Alto Adige
  7. trente et quarante
  8. Trent
  9. Trengganu
  10. trendy
  1. treponema
  2. trespass
  3. trespasser
  4. tress
  5. -tress
  6. tressed
  7. tressure
  8. trestle
  9. trestletree
  10. trestlework