disturb

dis-turb · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To interrupt someone's rest, sleep, or concentration.

  2. 2.

    To cause someone to feel anxious or upset.

  3. 3.

    To move or alter the position of something.

  4. 4.

    To interfere with the normal arrangement or functioning of something.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Do not disturb — A request to be left alone.
  • •
    Disturb the peace — To cause public disorder.
  • •
    Sorry to disturb you — An apology for interrupting.

Related words

Antonyms: calm, reassure, soothe
See also: disturbance, disturbed, disturbing
Synonyms: bother, disrupt, interrupt, upset

Etymology

From Latin disturbare ("to throw into disorder"), from dis- ("completely") + turbare ("to disturb, confuse"), from turba ("commotion, crowd").