Willis

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A term often used to describe a state of nervousness or anxiety that can cause hesitation or trembling in a person
2. A slang expression referring to a sudden sense of panic or unease that disrupts normal behavior or confidence
3. An informal phrase denoting a feeling of being unnerved or spooked, typically resulting in a lack of composure or steadiness

Etymology: The noun is most often found in the plural phrase "the willies," as in a dark house that "gives someone the willies." It names a jolt of creeping unease rather than a real danger. The singular spelling here belongs to the same informal vocabulary, where a sudden nervous fright is described with a playful, slightly odd noun instead of a formal one.

Synonyms: nervousness, jitters, anxiety, unease

Antonyms: calmness, composure, confidence