unrest

[uhn-rest] / ʌnˈrɛst /

NOUN

state of agitation; disturbance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anarchy anxiety confusion controversy crisis discontent discord dissension insurrection protest rebellion strife tension trouble tumult turmoil uproar

STRONG

altercation annoyance bickering bother chagrin change contention debate disaffection disease disquiet dissatisfaction distress dither ennui grief irritation malaise moodiness mortification perplexity perturbation quarrel restlessness sedition sorrow tizzy unease uneasiness upset vexation worry

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement approval calm calmness composure contentedness contentment ease happiness harmony order peace

STRONG

comfort delight health joy pleasure

WEAK

rest

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.

Sunday saw more unrest in parts of the region.

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

During the 2022 unrest, however, the rising magma triggered thousands of smaller earthquakes clustered along the fault rather than one major quake.

From Science Daily • May 14, 2026

The interior minister appeared unimpressed with Grégoire's idea, which he described as "unilateral" and warned of the risk of further unrest on the night PSG play Arsenal in Budapest at the end of this month.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Marin spoke little English as a child when her family fled unrest in Nicaragua for the United States in 1980.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

As unrest grew, Ptolemy’s only choice was to seek Rome’s help, further angering the citizens.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby

Vocabulary lists containing unrest

Lesson 4

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This Week in Words: Current Events Vocab for November 26–December 2, 2022

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