nerve: Meaning and Definition of

nerve

1. one or more bundles of fibers forming part of a system that conveys impulses of sensation, motion, etc., between the brain or spinal cord and other parts of the body.
2. a sinew or tendon: to strain every nerve.
3. firmness or courage under trying circumstances: an assignment requiring nerve.
4. boldness; audacity; impudence; impertinence: He had the nerve to say that?
5. nervousness: an attack of nerves.
6. strength, vigor, or energy: a test of nerve and stamina.
7. (not in technical use) pulp tissue of a tooth.
8. a vein, as in a leaf.
9. a line, or one of a system of lines, extending across something.
10. to irritate, annoy, or provoke one: Boisterous children get on my nerves.

1. to give strength, vigor, or courage to: Encouragement had nerved him for the struggle.