Neurotic

//n(j)ʊəˈɹɒtɪk// adj, noun, slang

Definitions

Adjective
  1. 1
    Affected with a neurosis. not-comparable

    "If there were such a thing as inspiration from a higher realm, it might well be that the neurotic temperament would furnish the chief condition of the requisite receptivity."

  2. 2
    Overly anxious. informal, not-comparable

    "He is getting neurotic about time-keeping."

  3. 3
    Useful in disorders of, or affecting, the nerves. not-comparable
Adjective
  1. 1
    affected with emotional disorder wordnet
  2. 2
    characteristic of or affected by neurosis wordnet
Noun
  1. 1
    A person who has a neurosis.
  2. 2
    a person suffering from neurosis wordnet
  3. 3
    A crazy person. informal

    "Drag this neurotic to hysterics, leave him balked and unfulfilled; holding inside, outwardly patient 'til the time he'll call it."

Etymology

Etymology 1

Formed of neuro- (“of nerves or the nervous system”) + -otic (“having abnormal condition”). The initial element, in turn, is from Ancient Greek νεῦρον (neûron, “nerve”). Attested from the 17th century. Compare French névrotique.

Etymology 2

Formed of neuro- (“of nerves or the nervous system”) + -otic (“having abnormal condition”). The initial element, in turn, is from Ancient Greek νεῦρον (neûron, “nerve”). Attested from the 17th century. Compare French névrotique.

Next best steps

Mini challenge

Unscramble this word: neurotic