antsy

adjective

ant·​sy ˈant-sē How to pronounce antsy (audio)
Synonyms of antsynext
1
informal : restless, fidgety
antsy children
also : impatient, eager
antsy for a new challenge
2
informal : nervous, apprehensive
antsy investors

Examples of antsy in a Sentence

he was feeling understandably antsy about the tax audit after a few minutes in the formal restaurant, the kids got antsy
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Washington is getting antsy about the power imbalance. Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 27 Apr. 2026 Residents at the meeting also grew antsy. Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2026 And this is when the kidnappers and the people around them can make mistakes, or get antsy. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 15 Apr. 2026 After missing nine consecutive games with a right ankle contusion, antsy watching the Lakers’ season nosedive into a new reality, Smart appeared in the final two games of the regular season. Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 13 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for antsy

Word History

Etymology

see ant entry 1

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of antsy was in 1950

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Antsy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antsy. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

antsy

adjective
ant·​sy ˈant-sē How to pronounce antsy (audio)
informal
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