on-edge
Wound up tight
On-edge describes a state of nervous tension or anxious alertness, as if balanced precariously and ready to tip at any moment.
Someone on-edge startles easily, snaps at small irritations, or can't quite relax: The whole office has been on-edge since the layoffs were announced.
The hyphenated form typically appears before a noun: an on-edge feeling.
Uneasy and apprehensive
- tenseStrained or nervous
- uneasyTroubled, not calm
- jitteryAnxiously restless
- apprehensiveFearful of future events
worried · restless · agitated · keyed-up · high-strung · overwrought · jumpy · antsy
nervous
Uneasy and apprehensive
apprehensive · worried · restless · agitated · keyed-up · high-strung · overwrought · jumpy · antsy · unsettled
suspenseful
Creating anxious anticipation
- waitingRemaining in expectation
- expectantAwaiting something foreseen
- breathlessLacking air, gasping
alert · watchful · vigilant · poised · ready · braced · primed · attentive · heightened · charged
touchy
Easily upset or offended
- snappyQuick and clever
- short-temperedProne to sudden anger
- pricklySpiny or irritable
tetchy · crabby · cranky · grouchy · peevish · testy · snippy · quick-tempered · fractious · thin-skinned