Search Dictionary
Definition of neuroticism

neuroticism

/nʊˈrɑːtɪsɪzəm/
neu · rot · i · cism
Adverb:neurotically
•
Plural:neuroticisms
•
Adjective:neurotic
JUMP TO:

neuroticism Lexical Profile

neuroticism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A fundamental personality trait in psychology characterized by a chronic tendency toward emotional instability, anxiety, worry, fear, and negative mood states.

Example

"Individuals who score high in neuroticism on personality assessments often experience greater stress in response to everyday challenges."

2

The state or condition of suffering from a neurosis; excessive or irrational anxiety and obsessive behavior.

Example

"The protagonist's charming neuroticism provides much of the comedic tension throughout the play."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for neuroticism
Antonyms
View all antonyms for neuroticism

• Rhymes for neuroticism

• Nearby Words

neurosurgery
neurotic
neurotically
neuroticism
neurotypical
neuse
neuter

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century from 'neurotic' and the suffix '-ism', ultimately deriving from Ancient Greek 'neuron' meaning 'nerve' or 'sinew'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Neuroticism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/neuroticism
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.