apprehension
UK: ˌæprɪˈhɛnʃən | US: ˌæprɪˈhɛnʃən
n. anxiety or fear about future events
n. the act of arresting or seizing someone
n. understanding or perception of a concept
apprehension = ap<toward> + prehen<grasp> + sion<noun suffix>
- ap (variant of "ad," meaning "toward" in Latin)
- prehen (from Latin "prehendere," meaning "to grasp or seize")
- sion (noun-forming suffix indicating action or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word "apprehension" traces back to Latin apprehendere, combining ad- (toward) and prehendere (to grasp). Originally, it meant physically seizing something (e.g., arresting a person). Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe "grasping with the mind" (understanding) and later "grasping fearfully" (anxiety). This dual meaning reflects the interplay between physical and mental "grasping."
She felt a growing apprehension before her job interview.
The police acted swiftly in the apprehension of the suspect.
His quick apprehension of complex ideas impressed the teacher.
The dog barked in apprehension at the unfamiliar noise.
The team’s apprehension about the project’s risks led to careful planning.