neuroticism

noun

neu·​rot·​i·​cism nu̇-ˈrä-tə-ˌsi-zəm How to pronounce neuroticism (audio)
nyu̇-
Synonyms of neuroticismnext
: a neurotic character, condition, or trait

Examples of neuroticism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On an album thoroughly steeped in neuroticism and personal dysfunction, that acceptance feels like freedom. — Hannah Jocelyn, Pitchfork, 23 Feb. 2026 At its core, though, The White Lotus continues to put a mirror up to the bourgeoisie’s neuroticism, with luxury travel as its lens. — Megan Spurrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Mar. 2025 People most sensitive are those who score low in self-esteem and high in neuroticism, who are fearful of negative evaluation, and who are generally pessimistic. — Big Think, 13 Aug. 2025 But psychological traits such as neuroticism, low self-esteem, anxiety and depression also increase risk. — Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for neuroticism

Word History

First Known Use

1900, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neuroticism was in 1900

Rhymes for neuroticism

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Browse Nearby Words

neurotically
neuroticism
neurotoid
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Cite this Entry

“Neuroticism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neuroticism. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

neuroticism

noun
neu·​rot·​i·​cism n(y)u̇-ˈrät-ə-ˌsiz-əm How to pronounce neuroticism (audio)
: a neurotic character, condition, or trait

More from Merriam-Webster on neuroticism

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