neurotic

Etymology

Formed of neuro- (“of nerves or the nervous system”) + -otic (“having abnormal condition”). The initial element, in turn, is from Ancient Greek νεῦρον (neûron, “nerve”). Attested from the 17th century. Compare French névrotique.

adj

1. Affected with a neurosis.
   If there were such a thing as inspiration from a higher realm, it might well be that the neurotic temperament would furnish the chief condition of the requisite receptivity. 1902, William James, The Varieties of Religious Experience, Lecture I
2. (informal) Overly anxious.
   He is getting neurotic about time-keeping.
3. (medicine) Useful in disorders of, or affecting, the nerves.

noun

1. A person who has a neurosis