PoliticsJuly 17, 2026
trepidation
/ˌtrɛpɪˈdeɪʃən/
Definition
A state of alarm, fearful anxiety, or nervous dread regarding potential future events or consequences.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'trepidatio,' meaning 'trembling' or 'alarm.' It entered English in the 17th century through French, maintaining its root connection to the physical sensation of fear.
In the news
The article uses 'trepidation' to describe the widespread unease among politicians of both parties regarding the potential political and democratic fallout of President Trump's speech. This reflects the shared anxiety that his rhetoric might destabilize the upcoming midterm elections.
Trump's election speech focuses not on the midterms, but on 2020. Why?
Read the full article ↗USA Today