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disturbed

adjective

/dɪˈstɜrbd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of disturbed

Unsettled, agitated, or troubled.
"The disturbed individual was in need of psychiatric help."

Detailed meaning of disturbed

It is often used to describe someone who is experiencing significant distress, turmoil, or instability in their thoughts, emotions, or behavior. A disturbed individual may exhibit signs of anxiety, confusion, restlessness, or erratic actions that deviate from what is considered typical or socially acceptable. This adjective can also be used to describe situations, events, or circumstances that cause unease, disruption, or upset. Whether referring to a person or a situation, the term "disturbed" implies a departure from a state of calmness, balance, or normalcy, indicating a disruption or disturbance in the usual order or functioning.

Example sentences containing disturbed

1. She seemed disturbed by the news and couldn't focus on her work.
2. The forest was serene, but the sudden rustling in the bushes disturbed the silence.
3. He was disturbed to find that his personal documents had been tampered with.
4. The students were trying to study, but the construction noise outside disturbed their concentration.
5. The neighbors complained that the loud music at night disturbed their sleep.
6. The manager was disturbed by the decline in sales and called for an urgent meeting.

History and etymology of disturbed

The adjective 'disturbed' is closely linked to its verb form, 'disturb,' in terms of etymology. It is derived from the Old French word 'destourber,' which has its origins in the Latin term 'turbare.' In Latin, 'turbare' means 'to disturb' or 'to throw into disorder.' Therefore, the etymology of 'disturbed' conveys the idea of being unsettled, agitated, or troubled, as if one's inner state or peace has been disrupted or thrown into disarray. This linguistic connection highlights how the adjective 'disturbed' aptly describes a state of emotional or mental turmoil, reflecting its use to characterize individuals who are experiencing inner unrest or unease.

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Further usage examples of disturbed

1. The witness gave a disturbed account of the events, clearly shaken by what he had seen.
2. They were having a peaceful picnic until a swarm of bees disturbed them.
3. The child seemed disturbed and refused to speak about what had happened at school.
4. The psychologist noted that the patient exhibited signs of a disturbed state of mind.
5. The natural habitat of the animals has been disturbed by deforestation and urbanization.
6. She was disturbed by the stranger's behavior and decided to leave the area immediately.
7. The residents were disturbed by the sudden increase in criminal activity in the neighborhood.
8. The author's disturbed imagination created chilling horror stories that captivated readers.
9. The ecosystem of the lake was disturbed by the introduction of an invasive species.
10. The disturbed waters of the turbulent river warned of impending danger.
11. His disturbed expression revealed the hidden turmoil within his soul.
12. The disturbed atmosphere in the room made everyone uneasy.
13. She felt deeply disturbed by the unsettling news of the accident.
14. The disturbed earth bore witness to the force of the earthquake.
15. Their disturbed conversation hinted at underlying tensions.
16. The disturbed night sky was a canvas of thunder and lightning.
17. He found it hard to focus with his disturbed thoughts swirling.
18. The forest echoed with the disturbed cries of nocturnal creatures.
19. The disturbed crowd demanded answers from the hesitant leader.
20. A disturbed mind can lead to erratic decision-making.
21. The disturbed sleep left her feeling drained and anxious.
22. The disturbed wildlife signaled the approach of a storm.
23. His disturbed dreams were haunted by unresolved memories.
24. The disturbed silence in the aftermath of the argument lingered.