nerve

Meanings

Noun

• A bundle of neurons with their connective tissue sheaths, blood vessels and lymphatics.
• A neuron.
• A vein in a leaf; a grain in wood
• Courage, boldness.
• Patience.
• Stamina, endurance, fortitude.
• Audacity, gall.
• The elastic resistance of raw rubber or other polymers to permanent deformation during processing.
• Agitation caused by fear, stress or other negative emotion.
• Sinew, tendon.

Verb

• To give courage.
• To give strength; to supply energy or vigour.

Origin

• Recorded since circa 1374, from Medieval Latin nervus ("nerve"), from Latin nervus ("sinew"). neuron, and sinew.