apprehensive
UK: ˌæprɪˈhɛnsɪv | US: ˌæprɪˈhɛnsɪv
adj. anxious or fearful about the future; uneasy
adj. quick to understand or perceive
The word "apprehensive" traces back to Latin apprehendere (to seize or grasp), combining ad- (toward) and prehendere (to seize). Over time, the physical sense of "grasping" evolved metaphorically into "grasping with the mind" (understanding) and later "grasping fearfully" (anxiety). The suffix -ive turns it into an adjective, reflecting a state of readiness—either intellectually or emotionally.
She felt apprehensive about the upcoming job interview.
The dark clouds made him apprehensive of a storm.
Children are often apprehensive on their first day of school.
His apprehensive glance revealed his distrust.
Despite her apprehensive nature, she took the leap.