NERVELESS

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does nerveless mean? 

• NERVELESS (adjective)
  The adjective NERVELESS has 2 senses:

1. marked by calm self-control (especially in trying circumstances); unemotional

2. lacking strength

  Familiarity information: NERVELESS used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• NERVELESS (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Marked by calm self-control (especially in trying circumstances); unemotional

Synonyms:

cool; coolheaded; nerveless

Context example:

the most nerveless winner in the history of the tournament

Similar:

composed (serenely self-possessed and free from agitation especially in times of stress)

Derivation:

nervelessness (fearless self-possession in the face of danger)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Lacking strength

Synonyms:

feeble; nerveless

Context example:

a weak, nerveless fool, devoid of energy and promptitude

Similar:

powerless (lacking power)

 Context examples 

Her voice rose into a wild cry, and throwing up her arms she sank back white and nerveless into the deep oaken chair.

(The White Company, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)

Fiercely he strove to disengage his weapon, but Hordle John bent his arm slowly back until, with a sharp crack, like a breaking stave, it turned limp in his grasp, and the mace dropped from the nerveless fingers.

(The White Company, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle)