nerve

/ˈnərv/

Latin nervus sinew, nerve; akin to Greek neuron sinew, nerve, nēn to spin

noun

  1. sinew, tendon

  2. any of the filamentous bands of nervous tissue that connect parts of the nervous system with the other organs, conduct nerve impulses, and are made up of axons and dendrites together with protective and supportive structures

  3. power of endurance or control : fortitude, strength

strain every nerve

temerity audacity hardihood effrontery nerve cheek gall chutzpah mean conspicuous or flagrant boldness. temerity suggests boldness arising from rashness and contempt of danger. audacity implies a disregard of restraints commonly imposed by convention or prudence.

verb

  1. to give strength or courage to : supply with physical or moral force

noun

  1. a toxic, usually odorless organophosphate (such as sarin, tabun, or VX) that is used as a chemical weapon in gaseous or liquid form, disrupts the transmission of nerve impulses, and may cause breathing difficulties, coughing, vomiting, muscle weakness or paralysis, convulsions, coma, and death : nerve, gas