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disturbance

noun

/dɪˈstɜr bəns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disturbance

A state or condition of disruption, agitation, or interference with the normal functioning or peaceful nature of something.
"The emotional disturbance experienced by the grieving family was evident in their tearful expressions."

Detailed meaning of disturbance

It is often characterized by the introduction of factors or events that cause a disturbance or upset the balance and tranquility of a particular system, environment, or situation. Disturbances can manifest in various forms, such as physical, emotional, or social disruptions. They can range from minor disturbances that cause temporary inconvenience or annoyance to more significant disruptions that have far-reaching consequences and require intervention to restore stability. Examples of disturbances include noise disturbances that disturb the peace and quiet of a neighborhood, emotional disturbances that disrupt one's mental well-being, or ecological disturbances that impact the delicate balance of an ecosystem. Overall, disturbances represent deviations from a state of calm, order, or equilibrium, and they necessitate attention and resolution to restore harmony and normalcy.

Example sentences containing disturbance

1. The loud construction noise outside caused a disturbance in my concentration.
2. The sudden power outage was a temporary disturbance to our daily routine.
3. The unruly students created a disturbance in the classroom, disrupting the lesson.
4. The constant barking of the neighbor's dog was a source of disturbance for the entire neighborhood.
5. The disturbance in the ocean created large waves that crashed against the shore.
6. The disturbing images in the horror movie caused a disturbance among the audience, making some cover their eyes.

History and etymology of disturbance

The noun 'disturbance' shares its etymological roots with the verb 'disturb.' It can be traced back to the Old French word 'destourbance,' which, in turn, has its origins in the Latin term 'turbantia.' The Latin word 'turbantia' is derived from 'turbare,' which means 'to disturb' or 'to throw into disorder.' Thus, the etymology of 'disturbance' underscores the concept of disruption, agitation, or interference with the normal functioning or peaceful nature of something. It encapsulates the idea of a state or condition in which tranquility or order is interrupted by external factors, reflecting the word's modern usage to describe various disruptions or disturbances in different contexts.

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Further usage examples of disturbance

1. The political protest turned into a violent disturbance, leading to clashes between the demonstrators and the police.
2. The disturbance in the stock market caused many investors to panic and sell off their shares.
3. The unexpected arrival of a guest at the party caused a temporary disturbance as everyone rushed to greet them.
4. The disturbance in the natural habitat of the animals led to a decline in their population.
5. The sudden disturbance in the aircraft's engine forced an emergency landing, causing panic among the passengers.
6. The loud music caused a disturbance in the neighborhood.
7. The protest resulted in a significant public disturbance.
8. A sudden disturbance interrupted the peaceful night.
9. The disturbance in the classroom disrupted the lesson.
10. Police were called to quell the disturbance at the bar.
11. The earthquake created a massive disturbance in the city.
12. The disturbance in the forest alarmed the wildlife.
13. A technical glitch caused a disturbance in the broadcast.
14. We apologize for any disturbance during the construction.
15. The disturbance in the water indicated a hidden danger.
16. A disturbance in the market affected stock prices.
17. The disturbance in the crowd led to a security response.
18. The disturbance of my sleep left me feeling tired.
19. The disturbance of the peace resulted in arrests.
20. They resolved the disturbance in the power supply.
21. A sudden disturbance in the sky caught our attention.
22. The disturbance in the ecosystem had dire consequences.
23. The disturbance in the air was caused by turbulence.
24. A disturbance in the balance can lead to problems.
25. The disturbance of the status quo sparked debate.