What does the word "skittish" most nearly mean?

The word "skittish" most nearly means uneasy. It is often used to describe someone who is jumpy, nervous, or easily frightened. In this context, someone who is skittish might react quickly to perceived threats or changes in their environment, indicating a sense of unease about what is happening around them. This aligns well with the concept of feeling uneasy, as both terms convey a lack of comfort or stability.

The other words do not accurately capture the meaning of "skittish." "Alleviate" refers to making something less severe or burdensome. "Ruse" indicates a deceptive maneuver or trick, which does not relate to feelings of anxiety or nervousness. "Subordinate" describes a lower rank or position in a hierarchy, which is unrelated to the emotional state implied by "skittish." Thus, "uneasy" is the best fit as it encapsulates the essence of feeling jittery or unsettled.