Etymology: (1375–1425; late ME restif stationary, balking < OF: inert; see rest2, -ive)
Definition of 'restive'
Princeton's WordNet
1. (adj)edgy, high-strung, highly strung, jittery, jumpy, nervy, overstrung, restive, uptight being in a tense state
2. (adj)restive impatient especially under restriction or delay "the government has done nothing to ease restrictions and manufacturers are growing restive"
Definition of 'restive'
Webster Dictionary
1. (adj)restive unwilling to go on; obstinate in refusing to move forward; stubborn; drawingback
2. (adj)restive inactive; sluggish
3. (adj)restive impatient under coercion, chastisement, or opposition; refractory
4. (adj)restive uneasy; restless; averse to standing still; fidgeting about; -- applied especially to horses