Disturb

Definition

Disturb refers to interrupting or causing discomfort, disorder, or disruption to someone or something. It can also mean to upset someone emotionally or mentally.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɜːrb/
• Respelling: dih-STURB

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɜːb/
• Respelling: dih-STURB

The pronunciation of "disturb" is the same in both American and British English, with only minor differences in accent.

Etymology

The word "disturb" comes from the Latin word "disturbare," meaning "to throw into disorder," from "dis-" meaning "apart" and "turbare" meaning "to confuse" or "to agitate." It entered the English language in the late 13th century, originally meaning to throw into disarray or confusion.

Derivatives

• Disturbance (noun)
• Disturbed (adjective)
• Disturbing (adjective)
• Undisturbed (adjective)
• Disturber (noun)

Synonyms

• Disrupt
• Agitate
• Interrupt

Antonyms

• Calm
• Peace
• Comfort

Usage

The term "disturb" is used in various contexts, including social, emotional, and environmental. It can refer to the interruption of a peaceful state, such as disturbing someone's sleep or focus. In emotional or psychological terms, it refers to upsetting someone's mental state. It is also used in environmental contexts, such as disturbing wildlife or natural habitats.

Related Terms

• Disrupt: To interrupt an event, activity, or process by causing a disturbance or problem.
• Interrupt: To stop the continuous progress of an activity or process by causing a break in continuity.
• Agitate: To disturb someone emotionally, making them feel upset or troubled.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To interrupt or disrupt something: Refers to breaking the flow or continuity of an activity or state.
  • Example: "Please don't disturb me while I'm working."
• To cause emotional or mental discomfort: Describes the act of upsetting or agitating someone's mind or feelings.
  • Example: "The news greatly disturbed him."
• To displace or alter something’s normal position: Used when referring to moving or disrupting the natural state of something, such as the environment.
  • Example: "The construction work disturbed the wildlife in the area."