Definition of the word skittishly

The origin of the word "skittishly" can be traced back to the Middle English word "sketynche," which meant "frightened" or "timid." The word "sketynche" came from the Old English word "cættinc," which meant "chicken-hearted." In the late 14th century, the word "sketynche" evolved into "sketische," which meant "timid" or "nervous." The suffix "ly" was then added to the word to create the adverb "skittishly" in the 16th century. The derived verb "skittish" was formed in the 19th century, meaning "to produce panic or fear" or "to make skittish." In modern usage, "skittishly" is used to describe a timid or nervous action or behavior. Here's an example sentence: "She walked skittishly through the busy market, constant passersby and loud noises leaving her in a frenzied and anxious state."