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Definition of apprehensive

apprehensive

/ˌæp.rɪˈhɛn.sɪv/
ap · pre · hen · sive
Adverb:apprehensively
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apprehensive Lexical Profile

apprehensive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen.

Example

"Many students felt apprehensive before the final examination results were posted."

2

Relating to the ability to understand or perceive something quickly (now rare or formal).

Example

"Her apprehensive faculties allowed her to grasp complex philosophical arguments with ease."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for apprehensive

• Nearby Words

appreciator
apprehend
apprehension
apprehensive
apprehensively
apprehensiveness
apprentice

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Late Latin apprehensivus, derived from the Latin verb apprehendere meaning 'to seize or grasp' (from ad- 'toward' and prehendere 'to seize'), initially referring to mental grasping before shifting to fearful anticipation.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Apprehensive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/apprehensive
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