disturbing

[dih-stur-bing] / dɪˈstɜr bɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

disquieting

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alarming annoying bothersome creepy depressing disconcerting discouraging distressing embarrassing frightening irritating ominous painful perplexing sinister startling threatening troublesome troubling unpleasant unsettling upsetting vexing worrisome worrying

STRONG

aggravating agitating discommoding discomposing dismaying foreboding harassing impeding perturbing provoking trying

WEAK

burdensome consequential difficult disagreeable discomforting gloomy hard inconvenient irksome laborious onerous pessimistic prophetic severe tiresome toilsome uncertain wearisome

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreeable auspicious comforting delightful easy encouraging good happy helpful nice pleasant pleasing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After a long decline spanning decades, the share of teens working summer jobs is expected to hit a record low this year — a disturbing trend that can have ominous repercussions for their future earnings.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

While some described the former Marine as a kind and supportive partner, others detailed disturbing conduct.

From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026

The typhoon was not only reshaping conditions at the ocean's surface but also disturbing layers of the atmosphere many miles overhead.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

Detective Peter Doomanis of the Los Angeles Police Department said in his declaration, filed with Carpenter's petition, that he believes the man has "developed a disturbing and irrational fixation on petitioner".

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

His body writhed, and the most disturbing retching sounds poured out of his gaping jaws.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas

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