Jitters/ˈdʒɪtərz/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Pre-Event Nervousness Jitters typically describe the anxiety felt before a stressful event. I've got the jitters about tomorrow's presentation. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Negative While usually linked to anxiety, jitters can also come from excitement. He's got the jitters because he’s thrilled about the trip. Pro Tip 3/3Short-Term Feeling The use of jitters usually implies a temporary state, not a long-term condition. The jitters from her first speech didn't last long.