trepidation

/ˌtre-pə-ˈdā-shən/

Latin trepidation-, trepidatio, from trepidare to tremble, from trepidus agitated; probably akin to Old English thrafian to urge, push, Greek trapein to press grapes

noun

  1. a nervous or fearful feeling of uncertain agitation : apprehension

  2. a tremulous motion : tremor

trepidation about starting a new job

fear dread fright alarm panic terror trepidation mean painful agitation in the presence or anticipation of danger. fear is the most general term and implies anxiety and usually loss of courage. dread usually adds the idea of intense reluctance to face or meet a person or situation and suggests aversion as well as anxiety.