Definitions

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.

The unrest began in December 2018, when Bashir introduced austerity measures to address a deepening economic crisis.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

This comes just as they see investors growing increasingly optimistic about a deal to end the Middle East unrest.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

“With the unrest in the Middle East now calming, U.S. natural gas will need a weather catalyst if we’re to see near-term prices move back above $3.00.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Those uprisings, later coined the Arab Spring, succeeded in bringing about a short democratic sojourn in Tunisia and a much briefer one in Egypt, but they also unleashed unrest.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 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

This Week in Words: Current Events Vocabulary for March 25–March 31, 2023

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Lesson 4

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

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!