v.
Pronunciation: - ' n ə rv
Function: transitive verb
Date: 1601
1 : to deprive of courage, strength, or steadiness
2 : to cause to become nervous : UPSET
– un · nerv · ing · ly \ - ' n ə r-vi ŋ -l ē \ adverb
synonyms UNNERVE , ENERVATE , UNMAN , EMASCULATE mean to deprive of strength or vigor and the capacity for effective action. UNNERVE implies marked often temporary loss of courage, self-control, or power to act < unnerved by the near collision>. ENERVATE suggests a gradual physical or moral weakening (as through luxury or indolence) until one is too feeble to make an effort <a nation's youth enervated by affluence and leisure>. UNMAN implies a loss of manly vigor, fortitude, or spirit <a soldier unmanned by the terrors of battle>. EMASCULATE stresses a depriving of characteristic force by removing something essential <an amendment that emasculates existing safeguards>.