Jitter
/ˈdʒɪt.ər/noun
To move or act with quick, nervous, jerky motions; also, a state of nervous agitation.
Did you know?“Jitter” is a relatively modern word that likely began as a vivid sound-symbolic term for shaking or quivering, which is why it feels so physically alive in the mouth.
Etymological Timeline
Late 19th Century
English
jitter
“To move nervously or in jerky, trembling motions.”
Late 19th Century
English
jitters
“A state of nervousness or trembling anxiety.”
Earlier 19th Century
English
jittery
“Trembling, jumpy, or nervous.”
Uncertain; likely imitative
English
jit-
“A sound-symbolic base associated with quick, jerky movement or shaking.”